News Blotter

9-4-18

Sep 04, 2018 02:08 PM

by Administrator

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reports several arrests, beginning with three on August 8, 2018. Mary Keck 38 of Austin, Texas was arrested on a warrant stemming from driving while license invalid and has since posted bond. Cecilia Rangel Mata 20 of Austin, Texas was stopped for driving 93 M.P.H. in a 75 M.P.H. zone. Deputies approached the vehicle and immediately smelled burning marijuana emitting from inside. Mata was placed under arrest for possession of marijuana in a drug free zone and made bond the following day. Later that same evening, 22 year old Thomas Edwardo Garza Sr. of Austin was stopped on US 84 east of Goldthwaite for fail to dim headlamps at approaching vehicles. Contact was made with Garza where he immediately became uncooperative with Deputies. Garza would not identify himself so he was removed from the vehicle and placed into handcuffs. Garza later admitted that he did not possess a driver’s license and during the deputies patting down Garza for weapons he was found to be in possession of marijuana. Garza was charged with possession of marijuana and placed in the Mills County Jail.

On August 21 thru the 23rd Mills County Deputies spent most of the week testifying in a possession of methamphetamine and endangering a child case in the 35th Judicial District Court. Former Mills County resident, Justin Allen Lee 36 years of age stood trial before Judge Stephen Ellis stemming from a search warrant that was executed in 2017 on Farm Road 572. As a result of the trial Lee was sentenced by Judge Ellis to a total of 50 years confinement in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Also on August 21, 2018 36 year old Phillip Eugene Jones of Goldthwaite turned himself into the Mills County Jail for a parole violation and is still currently in custody. On August 25, 2018, 40 year old Edward Evans of Mullin was stopped for an equipment violation on Fisher Street. During the contact, the Deputy could smell the odor of burnt marijuana emitting from inside the vehicle. Evans surrendered the remaining marijuana in his possession and was placed under arrest for possession of marijuana in a drug free zone. On August 29, 2018 24 year old Brian Wayne Hopson of Denver, CO was arrested for a warrant for failure to appear on possession of a controlled substance and since made bond. On this same date, 23 year old Christopher Scott Kistner was arrested on Fourth Street for driving while license suspended. On August 31, 2018, at approximately 10:00 PM, deputies were dispatched to a car accident in the 1400 block of Queen Street. Deputies arrived and found that a vehicle had drove through a residence and the driver had fled the scene. The driver was identified as 25 year old Kiefer Lee Wilson of Goldthwaite. Citizens and deputies began looking for Wilson and he was spotted several times but continued to elude deputies until approximately 1:45 AM where he was found on a bicycle and arrested for public intoxication. This case is still under investigation and further charges may be pending.

Finally on September 1, 2018, deputies responded to a report of man with a gun on Fisher Street and arrived and found that the victim was on an adjacent property shooting guns. Victim stated 33 year old Joseph Charles Valadez, manager of the Eagles Nest RV Park in Goldthwaite, had displayed some type of rifle and made some aggressive comments towards the victim and his family. Valadez was placed under arrest for the offense of Deadly Conduct and several firearms were seized from the residence. This case is still ongoing and investigators will look into the option also of indicting Valadez for felony aggravated assault charges in the 35th Judicial District Court. Valadez was taken into custody and made bond the next day.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported that on August 10th at approximately 10:45 P.M. deputies with the Mills County Sheriff’s Office executed a narcotics search warrant at a residence in Goldthwaite. Deputies were following up on a Crime Stoppers report of illegal drugs being distributed from a residence located at 86 TX16 South. Two apartments were searched during the investigation resulting in the seizure of approximately 9 grams of methamphetamines and an indoor marijuana grow. There were approximately 9 marijuana plants being grown in the residence. The grow lights and other contraband were seized during the search. Sheriff Hammonds said "My deputies did an awesome job on this case and I foresee other arrests in the future." Those arrested were 30 year old Heather Nicole Hampton of Goldthwaite, who arrived during the execution of the search warrant, and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine in her vehicle along with two residents who were identified as 68 year old Shari Taylor and 49 year old Matthew Jackson. Both were charged with possession of marijuana and felony possession of methamphetamine.

On 6/30/18 Deputy Daniel Garza responded to a report of a male subject attempting to pay for merchandise with counterfeit money. Deputy Garza identified the male as 61 year old Ronald Hartley. Hartley had attempted to pay for the merchandise with a counterfeit $100 bill. Deputy Garza found that Hartley had several more of the bills in his possession which he claimed he had received after selling some vehicle parts. Hartley was unable to pay for the merchandise he had already received. Deputy Garza arrested Hartley for Forgery and Theft of Service. Hartley was later released on $10,000 bond.

On 7/04/2018 a Search Warrant was served on a residence located on CR 310 in Goldthwaite. During the search warrant several firearms were recovered including stolen firearms from a recent Burglary of a Habitation in Mills County. There was also a small amount of Methamphetamine recovered in the Home. As a result of the search warrant an Arrest Warrant for Theft of a Firearm/Enhanced was issued for 41 year old Jason Higginbotham. Higginbotham was later arrested on the warrant by Deputy Daniel Garza during a traffic stop. Higginbotham was later released on $15,000 bond.

On 7/13/2018 27 year old William Holman was arrested in Dewitt County on an outstanding Mills County warrant for Failure to Appear on the charge of Driving While License Invalid. Holman was later released on $2,000 bond

On 7/18/18 Chief Deputy Chris Green arrested 23 year old Nathan Gonzales after he was sentenced to 12 months State Jail and 5 years TDC time in District Court.

On 7/19/2018 33 year old Andrew Heath turned himself in to the Mills County Sheriff’s Office on an outstanding Mills County warrant for Theft by Check. Heath was later released on $1,000 bond.

On 7/19/18 18 year old Jaycee Lenz was arrested in Brown County on an outstanding Mills County warrant for Motion to Adjudicate/ Assault on a Peace Officer. Lenz was later released on $10,000 bond.

On 7/23/18 Deputy Johnny Brown, Investigator Stephanie Brown and Deputy John Fincher were directing traffic on Hwy 84 West at FM 573 during the fire outside Zephyr. Investigator Brown noticed a red Ford Focus with its windows down as they approached the roadblock. Investigator noticed the smell of burnt Marijuana coming from the vehicle. Deputy Brown continued the investigation and after a probable cause search of the vehicle numerous drug paraphernalia items were located along with glass jar containing Marijuana. During the search a firearm was also located. One of the passengers, 21 year old Elija Parker claimed all of the items belonged to him. Parker was arrested for Possession of Marijuana <2oz and Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon. Parker was later released on $3,500 bonds.

On 7/28/18 41 year old Ronnie Myers was served with two arrest warrants while he was serving weekends on charges of Violation of a Protective Order. The warrants, from Mills County, were for Violation of Bond/Violation of Protective Order and Violation of Bond/Protective Order/Motion to Adjudicate. Myers was later released on $2,000 bond.

On 8/01/2018 30 year old Jessica Hansen was sentenced during District Court to 6 months State Jail time for Possession of a Controlled Substance <1g.

On 8/01/18 34 year old Charis Threats was sentenced during District Court to Safe P and 10 months deferred probation on a Possession of a Controlled Substance = 400 GRAMS charge.

On 8/02/2018 Investigator Stephanie Brown conducted a traffic stop on a red Dodge truck. The driver was identified as 31 year old Valerie Stegemoller. During the stop it was determined that Stegemoller was driving on a suspended license, did not have current vehicle insurance and the registration was expired on the vehicle. Stegemoller was arrested on these charges. Stegemoller was later released on $2,000 bond.

Sheriff Hammonds reports several arrests during the end of April through the end of June.

On 4/25/2018 Deputy Johnny Brown arrested 31 year old Chasity Davis after she was returned from Travis County to the Mills County Jail on a warrant for Motion to Revoke on an original charge of Possession of a Controlled Substance PG1<1g. Davis was sentenced by the District Court to serve 9 months in State Jail.

On 4/25/2018 Mills County Judge sentenced 44 year old Victor Bostick to 30 days in the Mills County Jail for a charge of Resisting Arrest.

On 4/30/2018 Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on a reported suspicious vehicle. It was determined that the call was related to an ongoing verbal dispute between to individuals via Instagram. During the investigation it was determined that the driver, 24 year old Reynaldo Mendoza was driving on a suspended Florida License. Mendoza was placed under arrest. Mendoza was later released on $1,500 bond.

On 5/03/2018 29 year old Ruben Mendez was returned to the Mills County Jail from Reeves County for outstanding Mills County Warrants for Bail Jumping/Failure to Appear.

On 5/09/2018 27 year old Regina Saranglao and 33 year old Dustin Beardsley-Cox turned themselves in to the Mills County Jail on outstanding warrants for Possession of Marijuana. They were later released on $1,000 PR bond.

On 5/09/2018 32 year old Kendra Lee turned herself into the Mills County Jail on a Mills County warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance PG1. She was released on $5,000 bond.

On 5/21/2018 Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on a Nissan passenger car on Hwy 183 South. The vehicles driver was identified as 28 year old Tyler Mutz along with a passenger identified as 28 year old Krystal Thornton. During a consensual search of the vehicle drug paraphernalia was located. Both were issued citations for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Mutz was arrested for Driving While License Invalid. She was later released on $1,000 PR bond.

On 5/21/2018 36 year old Justin Lee was ordered into custody by District Judge Steve Ellis during court. Judge Ellis raised Lee’s bonds on his original drug and Child Endangerment charges after it was learned that Lee had been arrested on several new Felony charges in Tom Green County after Lee led Law Enforcement on a multi County chase. Lee remains in custody.

On 6/02/2018 Deputy Daniel Garza responded to a report of a reckless driver on Hwy 183 South. Deputy Garza located the vehicle in the Goldthwaite City Park. Deputy Garza identified the driver and passengers and after some investigation and a consensual search of the vehicle, the driver 39 year old Eddie Gutierrez was arrested for Possession of Marijuana >2oz in a Drug Free Zone. He was released on $2,500 bond.

On 6/02/2018 41 year old William Wilson turned himself into the Mills County Jail on a Parole warrant for 3 counts of Burglary of a Habitation. Wilson remains in custody.

On 6/03/2018 Deputy Daniel Garza conducted a traffic stop on a green Ford Ranger on Maple St. The driver was identified as 40 year old Edward Evans. It was determined that the registration on the vehicle had expired in 2014. Evans was arrested for Expired Registration and Altered License Plates. He was later released on a $500 PR bond.

On 6/03/2018 Deputy John Fincher responded to a report of a suspicious person at Schwartz Food Store. Deputy Fincher identified the subject as 53 year old Rojelio Tijerina. It was determined that Tijerina had a warrant out of Def Smith County for Possession of a Controlled Substance in a Correctional Facility. Tijerina was placed under arrest for the warrant and later released to Def Smith County.

On 6/08/2018 Investigator Stephanie Brown conducted a traffic stop on a green Ford Ranger adjacent to the court house. The driver, 40 year old Edward Evans was arrested for Expire Registration after it was determined the registration had expired in 2014 and he had been warned several times and arrested for the same recently. He was later released on $750 bond.

On 6/16/2018 Deputy John Fincher responded to a report of a Domestic Disturbance on FM 575. It was reported that 24 year old Dylan McClendon had brandished a knife and threatened members of his family with it. Deputy Fincher determined through interviews that McClendon had in fact done this and McClendon was arrested for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. He was later released on $30,000 bond.

On 6/23/2018 Deputy James Purcell arrested 27 year old Briana Edwards at the Mills County Sheriff’s Office after she returned to the jail to pick up her remaining commissary money after being released on 6/17/2018. It was determined that a new warrant had been issued for Edwards from McLennan County for Motion to Adjudicate-False Report. She was later released on $2,000 bond.

On 6/26/2018 Deputy Daniel Garza was dispatched to a disturbance at the Road Runner Trailer Park. Deputy Garza identified a suspect as 30 year old Kelley Covey. Covey was arrested for Public Intoxication. Covey was released several days later after time served.

On 6/26/2018 Deputy Daniel Garza responded to a report of a Domestic Disturbance on Pine St. During the investigation it was determined that 37 year old Michael Gillis had prevented the victim from contacting 911. Gillis was arrested for Interference with Emergency Telephone Call. He was later released on $2,500 PR bond.

On 6/28/2018 Deputy Daniel Garza conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on Hwy 183 South. After a consensual search of the vehicle 34 year old David Campbell was arrested for Possession of Marijuana and Possession of a Dangerous Drug. He was later released on $3,500 bond.

Sheriff Hammonds reports numerous arrests in Mills County during the months of February through April. On February 13, DPS Trooper Lorenzo Arroyo conducted a traffic stop on a black SUV driven by 20 year old Alexis Marie Gonzalez of Austin, Texas. During the stop, consent to search the vehicle was given by Gonzalez and Trooper Arroyo located Marijuana, amphetamine/dextroamphetamine pills and three Texas drivers Licenses belonging to other individuals. Gonzalez was arrested for Possession of Marijuana,(< 2oz), Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 2 (>1g <4g), and Possession of more than one Driver’s License. She was later released on bonds totaling $9,500.On February 18, Deputy Daniel Garza conducted a traffic stop on a Ford truck on Hwy 84 West. The driver was identified as 38 year old Jeremy Philip Whitley of Brownwood, Texas. During a check of Whitley’s driver’s license it was found that the license was suspended and he had several previous charges of driving with an invalid license. Whitley was arrested for Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions. On February 18, DPS Trooper Clayton Arredondo arrested 48 year old Michael Jamison Groh for Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions and Possession of Marijuana (<2oz). He was later released on bonds totaling $2,750. On February 20, Deputy John Fincher arrested 36 year old Justin Allen Lee of San Angelo on a warrant during District Court. The warrant was for Endangering a Child, Criminal Negligence. He was later released on $15,000 bond.On February 24, Deputy Daniel Garza conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota SUV on Hwy 84 East. The driver was identified as 58 year old Richard Lynn Spivey of Boerne, Texas. During the stop Deputy Garza learned that Spivey had an outstanding warrant from Hamilton County for Motion to Revoke/Driving While Intoxicated/3rd or more. Deputy Garza arrested Spivey for the warrant and also charged him with having no driver’s license and speeding, 96mph in a 75mph zone. On February 25, Deputy John Fincher responded to a report of a possible intoxicated driver on FM 573 near Mullin. Deputy Fincher located the vehicle, a black Ford pickup, and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. The driver was identified as 32 year old William Seth Williams. Deputy Fincher determined that Williams was intoxicated and as a result he was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated. He was later released on $1,000 bond. On February 25, Deputy Daniel Garza conducted a traffic stop on a Dodge pickup in Goldthwaite. Deputy Garza identified the driver as 37 year old John David Ritter of Goldthwaite. It was determined that Ritter had a suspended license, a 2 year old child not in a proper safety seat and an open container of alcohol. Ritter was arrested for Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions. He was also issued citations for Driving with No Insurance and Open Container. He was later released on $2,750 bond. On February 26, Deputy Johnny Brown responded to a report of an assault that had occurred at Mullin School. During the investigation it was determined that 18 year old Cody Wayne Couch of Star, Texas had assaulted another student that was mentally handicapped. Further investigation revealed that the incident had been captured on video. With the assistance with Investigator Stephanie Brown, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Couch. Couch was soon arrested on the warrant for Injury to a Child/Elderly/Disabled with Intent of Bodily Injury. He was later released on $5,000 bond. On February 27, DPS Trooper Clayton Arredondo conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by 23 year old Nathan Blake Gonzales of Brownwood, Texas. During the stop Trooper Arredondo smelled the odor of burnt Marijuana. During a probable Cause search of the vehicle approximately 3 ½ pounds of Marijuana was located. Gonzales was arrested for Possession of Marijuana >4oz < 5lbs. He was later released on $5,000 bond. On February 28, Deputy James Purcell was assigned as Bailiff for District Court. During Court 34 year old Matthew Joe Lopez of San Saba, Texas was found guilty of Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled substance (Methamphetamine) in a Drug Free Zone and was sentenced to 6 years in TDC. Deputy Purcell arrested Lopez and transported him to the Mills County Jail awaiting transfer to TDC. On March 2, 22 year old Brittany Jayde Pence of Cisco, Texas was returned to the Mills County Jail on outstanding warrants resulting from an investigation in September of 2016. The investigation was by Deputy Johnny Brown and included offenses of Burglary of a Habitation and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. On March 3, DPS Trooper Lorenzo Arroyo conducted a traffic stop on a Jeep SUV on Hwy 183. The driver was identified as 41 year old Joseph John Ward of Austin, Texas. During the stop Trooper Arroyo detected the odor of burnt marijuana. During a probable Cause search a quantity of Marijuana was located. Ward was arrested for Possession of Marijuana (<2oz). He was later released on $1,000 bond. On March 3, DPS Trooper Lorenzo Arroyo conducted a traffic stop on a Jeep SUV. The driver was identified as David Anthony Wilson of Sacramento, California. During the stop Trooper Arroyo noticed items of Drug paraphernalia in plain view. During a Probable Cause search a quantity of Marijuana and Methamphetamine were located. Wilson was arrested for Possession of Marijuana (<2oz) and Possession of a Controlled Substance, Methamphetamine, (>4g <200g). He was later released on $16,000 bond.On March 6, DPS Trooper Jeffrey Owens conducted a traffic stop on a Honda passenger van on Hwy 84 West. The driver was identified as 32 year old Charisse Mauri Monceaux of Austin, Texas. The passenger was identified as 26 year old Victoria Larae Lomas of Abilene, Texas. Trooper Owens determined that Monceaux driver’s license was suspended and the vehicle did not have insurance. Monceaux was arrested for Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions. During a subsequent interview Monceaux admitted to the presence of Drug Paraphernalia in the vehicle and that she had Heroin hidden on her person. During a probable cause search of the vehicle multiple syringes containing amounts of Heroin were located. There was also quantity of Cocaine located in the vehicle. During a strip search at the jail, Investigator Stephanie Brown located a quantity of Heroin and Methamphetamine hidden inside Monceaux’s pants. Monceaux was arrested on multiple charges including several counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, PG1 (>1g <4g), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Tampering/Fabricating Physical Evidence, False Driver’s License/ID, and Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions. She remains in Custody. With bonds totaling $38,500. Lomas was also charged with 1 count of Possession of a Controlled substance PG1 (<1g) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Lomas was later released on $8,200 bond. On March 8, Deputy Johnny Brown responded to a report from workers with CPS that an individual with multiple outstanding warrants was traveling from Lampasas towards Goldthwaite with a known individual from Goldthwaite. A vehicle description was given. Deputy Brown along with Texas DPS Trooper Clayton Arredondo searched for the vehicle and located it on Hwy 183. Deputy Brown located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on it. The wanted person identified as 28 year old Tobias Allen Garcia of Brady was located in the vehicle. Garcia was arrested for several outstanding warrants including Assault Causes Bodily Injury/Family Member and Evading Arrest/Detention, both out of Brady, Texas, and warrant out of Tom Green County for Surety Withdrawl/Evading Arrest/Detention. Also in the vehicle was 35 year old Jamie Lynn Maxwell of Goldthwaite, Texas. Maxwell was arrested for outstanding warrants out of Brady, Texas for Hinder Apprehension/Prosecution. Maxwell was later released on $1,500 bond. Garcia was released on bonds totaling $6,500. On March 13, Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on a Chrysler van on Hwy 183. The driver was identified as 62 year old Bobby Eugene Gwinn of Abilene, Texas. During a consensual search Gwinn was found to be in possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia and a quantity of Methamphetamine on his person. He was subsequently arrested and charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance PG1 (<1g). He was later released on $5,000 bond. On March 14, DPS Trooper Jeffrey Owens conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet passenger car on Hwy 183. The driver was identified as 18 year old Sara Nicole Lambright of Dale, Texas. The passengers in the vehicle were identified as 17 year old Carson Kelley of Bastrop, Texas and 18 year old Makayla Turner of Cedar Creek, Texas. During the stop Trooper Owens noticed an odor of Burnt Marijuana. During the subsequent search multiple items of Drug Paraphernalia were located along with multiple fake ID cards and a quantity of Marijuana. Lambright was arrested and charged with Possession of a False Driver License/ID and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Kelley was arrested and charged with Tamper/Fabricate Physical Evidence W/Intent to Impair, Possession of Marijuana (<2oz), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and False Driver License/ID. He was later released on bonds totaling $11,200. Turner was arrested and charged with False Driver License/ID. She was later released on On March 16, Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on a white van on Hwy 183. The driver was identified as 24 year old Shakobee Donyea Taylor of Killeen, Texas. During the stop Deputy Brown smelled the odor of burnt Marijuana. During the subsequent search a quantity of Marijuana was located. Taylor was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana (<2oz) and an outstanding warrant for Theft out of Bell County. He was later released on bonds totaling $3,500. On March 19, Deputy Daniel Garza responded to a report of an intoxicated person at a local church. The intoxicated person was located and identified as 52 year old Kelley Knight of Goldthwaite, Texas. Due to her severe intoxication she was arrested and charged with Public Intoxication. She was released the next day after paying a fine. On March 20, 56 year old Randall Hudson of Kyle, Texas was arrested in Hays County on a Mills County warrant for Bail Jumping and Failure to Appear on a Felony. He was transferred back to Mills County and later released on a $60,000 bond. On March 22, Deputy Johnny Brown arrested 25 year old Hector Vaquera on an outstanding Mills County warrant for Possession of a Controlled Substance PG1 (>1g <200g) in a Drug Free Zone. During the arrest Vaquera was found to be in possession of multiple Marijuana smoking devices. He was later released on $20,000 bond.

On March 24, DPS Trooper Jeffrey Owens conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota pickup on Hwy 183. The driver was identified as 35 year old Charlie Lynn Gibson of Durango, Colorado. During the stop Trooper Owens detected the odor of burnt Marijuana. During the subsequent search a quantity of Marijuana “wax/resin” was located along with a quantity of Marijuana. Gibson was arrested and charged with Possession of Marijuana (<2oz) and Possession of a Controlled Substance PG2 (>2g <400g). He was later released on bonds totaling $16,000. On March 25, Deputy James Purcell responded to a report of an Assault that had occurred at a residence in Mullin. It was determined that an Assault had occurred and Deputy Purcell arrested 17 year old Mason Wayne Spivey of Mullin, Texas. He was charged with Assault causes Bodily Injury Family Member. He was later released on $2,500 bond. On March 27, Deputy James Purcell was working as Bailiff for CPS Court. During court Deputy Purcell arrested Justin Allen Lee for an outstanding Mills County Warrant for Bail Jumping and Failure to Appear. He was later released on $10,000 bond. On March 31, Trooper Jeffrey Owens conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet pickup on Hwy 183. The driver was identified as 61 year old Glenda Watson Campbell of Bangs, Texas. During the stop Trooper Owens detected the odor of an alcoholic beverage coming from Campbell. The subsequent investigation determined that Campbell was intoxicated. She was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated/3rd or More and Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions. She was later released on bonds totaling $14,250. On March 31, Lampasas DPS Trooper Monty Carol arrested 27 year old Michaelangelo Garza Amaya of Dublin, Texas during a traffic stop in Mills County for a Parole warrant. The charge was Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. He was later transferred back to Comanche County.On April 1, Deputy James Purcell responded to a report of a suspicious person lying next to the roadway on Hwy 16 North. The subject was located and identified as 22 year old Julian Ortega of Austin, Texas. Ortega advised he had a warrant for his arrest and he wanted to be arrested. Deputy Purcell verified that Ortega was in fact wanted from the Parole Division of TDC for Aggravated Assault by Public Servant. Has later transferred to TDC custody.On April 5, DPS Trooper Clayton Arredondo arrested 22 year old Codell Dashun Dorsey of Abilene during a traffic stop. Dorsey was arrested for Possession of Marijuana (<2oz) and a warrant for Bail Jumping and Failure to Appear out of Bell County. He was later released to Bell County.On April 6, DPS Trooper Clayton Arredondo conducted a traffic stop on a Nissan SUV. The driver was identified as 28 year old Larry Dwayne Hall of Killeen, Texas. A driver’s license check revealed that Halls license was suspended. He was arrested for Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions. He was later released on $$1,750 bond.

The Mills County Sheriff’s Office needs the public’s assistance locating persons involved in a vehicle theft. On February 28, 2018 we took a report of a motor vehicle theft from Priddy, Texas. The vehicle stolen was a 2000 model Ford F350, white in color. The vehicle is a ranch truck with a flatbed. Mounted on the bed are hay forks, creep feeder and large toolbox. The vehicle was taken on February 28, 2018 at approximately 10:00am. Witnesses saw the vehicle leave the property followed by another vehicle, a 2003 Ford F250 crew-cab, brown in color with a solver toolbox. We believe that vehicle is the same one stolen from the Evant area the previous day. Both vehicles were captured on surveillance video travelling South through Priddy on Hwy 16S shortly after the theft.

Comanche County and Hamilton County are investigating similar vehicle thefts that occurred around the same time. There have also been burglaries involved with the vehicle thefts.

If you have any information on these thefts please contact the Mills County Sheriff’s Office (325) 648-2245 or Heart of Texas Crime Stoppers 1 800-222-8477.

Please remember to remove keys from your vehicles and lock them. These vehicles were stolen from places where they could not be seen from the roadway and from barns.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous arrests in Mills County in the month of January through February. On January 18th, 23 year old Dequon Jamar Cole of Brownwood, Texas was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Mills County Court for the offense of failure to appear and motion to revoke probation for fail to identify fugitive from justice. On January 26, 2018, Martin County Sheriff’s Office arrested 24 year old Andrew Wylliam Davis on a Mills County warrant for the offense of possession of marijuana less than 5 pounds. The warrant for Davis was the result of an earlier investigation in a possession case. Then on January 27th, Mills County deputies conducted a traffic stop for a moving violation and made contact with the occupants Mitchell Paden Bilotta (driver) Elle Renae Sage (passenger) both 22 years of age from Abilene, Texas. During the contact deputies detected the smell of burning marijuana emitting from the vehicle. A probable cause search was conducted and approximately 4.5 ounces of marijuana were recovered from the vehicle. Both subjects were arrested and charged with possession of marijuana over 4 ounces but less than 5 pounds. On January 30th, 56 year old Coleen Kaye Ingram was arrested for an outstanding warrant for motion to revoke probation for possession of marijuana. Ingram is still in custody serving time for this offense.

On February 7th, 28 year old Erica Nichol Bynum was arrested on an outstanding warrant out of 35th District Court for motion to revoke and failure to appear for felony aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Bynum remains in the Mills County jail and is awaiting trial. On February 8, 2018, Mills County Deputies responded to a report of a suspicious person in car at a local business. Deputies spotted the vehicle traveling east on US 84 and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle. Deputies identified 47 year old Max Charles Walker of Idalou, Texas. Walker was highly intoxicated on an unknown substance and placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated. Deputies then searched the vehicle and found a package of methamphetamine in the vehicle. Walker was on his way for a job interview in the medical field and was also in possession of a fake urine test kit to deceive the detection of narcotics in one’s body. Walker was also charged with possession of a controlled substance. On February 7th, 27 year old Naomi Salung Ganaha of Killeen was booked into the Mills County Jail from Lampasas charged with felony injury to the elderly. Ganaha stopped in a local business in 2017 and began shoplifting items. When store employees confronted the individual she assaulted one of the owners who is elderly. Ganaha has not been able to make bond and will remain in the Mills County Jail until her trial. Then on February 9th, Deputies responded to a report of a 911 call of a family assault that was in process. Deputies were advised that the 911 call was disconnected. Deputies responding to the residence saw the suspect, 30 year old Mitchell David Fletcher of Goldthwaite, leaving the residence. Deputies attempted to stop Fletcher but he fled the scene in his vehicle and deputies began a pursuit. Fletcher finally stopped at a residence in the 900 block of Fifth Street where he exited his vehicle but refused demands of the deputies to cooperate. Fletcher was then shot with a Taser and quickly complied with demands. It was then discovered that a minor child was a passenger in the vehicle while the deputies were in pursuit. Fletcher was charged with numerous felonies and misdemeanors to include #1. Interference with 911 call, #2 Assault against family member by strangulation (2 counts), #3 Endangering a child, #4 Fleeing, #5 Criminal Mischief, #6 Resisting arrest and #7 reckless driving. Fletcher is currently free on bond and awaiting trial. On February 16th, Mills County Deputies stopped a vehicle for speeding south of Goldthwaite on US 183. Deputies made contact with the driver, 17 year old Madison Jade Mays of Brownwood, Texas, for the violation and immediately could smell the odor of marijuana emitting from inside the vehicle. A Probable cause search revealed a small amount of marijuana and prescription pills not belonging to Mays. She was arrested for possession of marijuana less than 2 ounces and possession of a controlled substance both misdemeanor offenses.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reports numerous arrests through the month of December 2017 and January 2018. On December 1, 2017 44 year old Christopher Edward Payne of Goldthwaite was arrested for Theft over $750. Payne was employed at a local business and obtained some tires from the business without paying for them. On December 3, 2017 Texas DPS Troopers conducted a traffic stop on Paul Anthony Gallardo 29 of Brownwood, Texas. Gallardo was arrested for Credit Card Abuse, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana and Fail to identify fugitive from justice. On December 15, 2017 37 year old Timothy Howard Graham of Little Rock, Arkansas was arrested for motion to revoke probation for credit card abuse. Graham is still currently in the Mills County Jail. On December 17, 2017 Damien Gus Carman was arrested for fail to appear for DWI charge and has since been released. On December 17, 2017, Mills County Deputies responded to a 911 call of a disturbance on County Road 130. Deputies arrived and identified individuals as one male victim and one male suspect 61 year old Henry Thomas Mangham of Mullin, Texas. During the course of the investigation the victim had stated that Mangham had pulled a .44 caliber handgun on him and the victim was able to fend off Mangham during a physical altercation at which point the handgun discharged. Mangham was placed under arrest for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. On December 28, 2017 Mills County Deputies stopped a vehicle in Mullin for a traffic violation. The driver 36 year old Brandi Spivey of Mullin was arrested after a consent search revealed that she was in possession of drug paraphernalia. Further evidence was seized resulting in Spivey being charged with possession of methamphetamine less than one gram.

Then on December 31, 2017 Mills County deputies responded to a report of a 911 hang up call at a residence on Farm Road 572. Deputies made contact with a pregnant female (victim) and Marc James Daniel Meyer 22 of Goldthwaite, Texas. The victim was attempting to call 911 due to a disturbance at the residence and Meyer interrupted the call. Deputies arrived on scene and found that the victim had been assaulted. Meyer was arrested for assault causes bodily injury to a family member and interference with a 911 call. On this same date, deputies responded to a report of a one vehicle accident on TX 16 south of Goldthwaite. Deputies arrived and found no one around the vehicle. A short time later a male individual arrived at the office stating that he was the driver of the vehicle and that the passenger was at a house in Goldthwaite and might possibly be hurt. Deputies went to a residence in 1300 block of Fisher Street to conduct a welfare check. When the occupants of the home answered the door deputies could smell the strong odor of marijuana emitting from inside the house. Deputies gained consent and recovered several items related to possession and use of narcotics. Tanya Jo Norton 43 of Goldthwaite was arrested for possession of cocaine and the other male occupants of the house were not arrested at the time. Investigators will be seeking warrants for the other individuals involved and they will be identified in a press release after their arrest.

On January 2, 2018 Mills County Deputies responded to a report of an unwanted individual at the Senior Center located on the square. Deputies arrived and identified the subject as 54 year old Roy Edward Bennett of Goldthwaite. Bennett had previously been warned not to enter the property resulting in his arrest for criminal trespass. On January 4, 2018 Mills County Deputies were on routine patrol when they found a female subject staggering in the middle of the 1400 block of Trent Street. The 37 year old female, Brandy Marie Johnson of Seabrook, Texas was found to be intoxicated on some sort of narcotic and placed under arrest. During the arrest the female directed deputies to a residence in the same block where she had just left. Deputies then went to the residence and met with 34 year old Brad Weldon Tucker of Goldthwaite where he admitted to being in possession of illegal narcotics and gave deputies consent to search the residence. Tucker was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance in a drug free zone due to the residence being in proximity of GISD Middle and High Schools. This same date 20 year old Brandon Wayne Horton of Mullin was arrested for a parole violation warrant for felony evading arrest. On January 19, 2018 Ronnie Myers 43 of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for violation of a protective order. On January 20, 2018 Texas DPS Troopers conducted a traffic stop on 23 year old Cristian Guadalupe Arredondo of Goldthwaite. During the contact Troopers discovered, based on Arredondo’s admission, that he had thrown marijuana out of the vehicle prior to being stopped. Arredondo was arrested for felony tampering with evidence and has since made bond. Michael Gonzalez 22 of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for criminal mischief involving an earlier investigation. On January 20, 2018 Michael Butler 45 of Goldthwaite was arrested after being indicted by a Mills County Grand Jury for felony cruelty to non-livestock animals. Butler turned himself in and bonded out the same day.

Finally on January 21, 2018 Mills County Deputies and Texas DPS Troopers responded to a report of a 911 call in the 1600 block of Priddy Road in reference to a man with a gun. Officers met with the caller in the yard and stated that 47 year old Jarred Lee Williams of Goldthwaite was in the house with a gun and that she feared he was going to harm himself. The caller stated that it was her husband and that he had discharged a gun in their bedroom. Officers made entry into the residence and were able to place Williams into custody. Officers noted that there were several bullet holes inside the bedroom and that Williams was extremely intoxicated. Williams was charged with felony deadly conduct and placed in the Mills County Jail.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported that the recent months deputies had been busy focusing on sex offenders in Mills County with the assistance of the Texas Department of Public Safety. Mills County Deputies served several warrants on local sex offenders for numerous violations of their reporting standards. Sheriff Hammonds stated that all of the sex offender charges are felonies and he and his staff will continue to monitor these offenders to ensure they are in compliance. On October 19, 2017 Geneva Costello 38 of Temple, Texas was arrested for several Surety Withdrawal warrants for Possession of Methamphetamine and fail to identify by giving fictious information. Also on this same date John Westley Gossett 40 of Mullin, Texas was arrested for failure to appear for possession of a controlled substance in a drug free zone and failure to register as sex offender. On October 20, 2017 26 year old John Thomas Hopkins of Lometa, Texas was arrested for driving while license suspended and 23 year old Andrew Wylliam Davis of Comanche was arrested for possession of marijuana over 4 ounces but less than 5 pounds. On October 25, 2017 David Kendall Gossett 44 of Mullin, Texas was arrested for unlawful possession of firearm by felon. Then 22 year old Michael Allen Moore of Clovis, New Mexico was extradited back on a warrant for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. On October 31, 2017 32 year old Stephanie Lee Cisneros of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for Assault against family member surety withdrawal. Trevor Dotson Williams 38 of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for failure to comply with sex offender registration. On November 2, 2017 26 year old Adalberto DeLeon of Dublin, Texas was arrested on a Mills County Warrant for the felony offense of theft of livestock valued at over $10,000 but less than $150K. On November 8, 2017 Matthew James Jackson 48 of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for failure to comply with sex offender registration. Then on November 13, 2017 21 year old Haley Phillips was arrested on a warrant for motion to adjudicate probation for prohibited sexual conduct. On November 15, 2017 54 year old Roy Edward Bennett of Goldthwaite was arrested for disorderly conduct on Sixth Street in Goldthwaite. Shortly afterwards Mills County Deputies were at a residence in the 1700 Block of Earl Street assisting family protective services in the removal of a child. During the removal 44 year old Victor Bostick of Goldthwaite approached the residence in a vehicle from the public street and narrowly missed deputies and bystanders. Bostick became very volatile towards deputies and was shot with Taser multiple times. Bostick was charged with Reckless driving, resisting arrest. Once in the patrol car Bostick kicked the patrol car door causing damage to the door. Bostick at that point was also charged with criminal mischief.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reports several arrests for the month of September and the beginning of October. On September 6, 2017, Sharon Kay Johnson of Gatesville, TX was arrested on several Mills County felony warrants for Forgery Financial Instrument and Forgery Financial Instrument Elderly. The warrants stemmed from an investigation that began in June after the Mills County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by Mills County State Bank regarding a transaction they believed to be a forgery. On September 13, 2017 as a result of a sentence imposed by County Judge Fulk, Whitney Faye of Austin, TX was arrested on a Class B Misdemeanor Motion to Revoke for failing to abide by terms of her probation. On September 14, 2017, deputies responded to the Driver’s License Office at the Mills County Courthouse where Hanna Marie Couch of Azle, TX was arrested for an outstanding warrant out of Parker County. On September 22, 2017, Investigator Stephanie Brown took a report of Injury to a Child. As a result of her investigation, an arrest warrant was issued and, Jacob Carlton of Mullin was arrested at his residence. On September 23, 2017 after initiating a traffic stop, Deputy Johnny Brown arrested Charis Lamar Threats for Felony Possession of a Controlled Substance, Misdemeanor Possession of Marijuana and a Misdemeanor traffic offense. The vehicle Mr. Threats was operating along with cash located in the vehicle was seized and will be subject to forfeiture for being used during the commission of a felony. On October 10, 2017 dispatch received a call of a disturbance on Lee St. Upon arrival, contact was made with the individual in question who was visibly intoxicated. Laythan Allen Wallace of Goldthwaite was arrested for Public Intoxication and transported to the Mills County Jail. On October 12, 2017, based on ongoing narcotics investigations, 3 people were arrested at a residence in Goldthwaite; Janet Frances Johnson of Goldthwaite for 2 counts of Felony Theft of Firearm, Misdemeanor Possession of Dangerous Drug and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Jeffrey Joseph Cancel Jr. of Goldthwaite for 2 counts of Felony Possession of Controlled Substance along with Misdemeanor counts of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia; Jessika Marie Delgado of Goldthwaite was also arrested for 2 Felony counts of Possession of Controlled Substance and Misdemeanor counts of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. A Mills County Grand Jury recently issued an indictment against Roque Gonzales of Goldthwaite for Theft of Property. A warrant was issued, and Gonzales was arrested at his residence on October 15, 2017.

Sheriff ClintHammonds reported several arrests from the end of July through August 2017. OnJuly 25th, Deputies were conducting a narcotics investigation and were able togain probable cause for a traffic stop on 25 year old Anthony Calderaz ofGoldthwaite. During the stop Calderaz consented to a search of his vehicle andalso admitted to being in possession of a syringe that he had used recently toinject methamphetamine. Calderaz was arrested for possession of methamphetamineless than one gram and placed in the Mills County Jail. On July 30th CristianGuadalupe Arredondo 22 of Goldthwaite was stopped for speeding in theGoldthwaite City Park. During the contact it was discovered that Arredondo waswanted for motion to adjudicate probation for a previous driving whileintoxicated. It was discovered that Arredondo was in possession of marijuanaduring the arrest. Arredondo was charged with possession of marijuana in a drugfree zone and driving while license invalid. Subject is released on bondpending trial. On August 2nd, Mills County Deputies responded to a domesticdisturbance on Farm Road 575. After arriving and beginning the investigation itwas discovered that 26 year old Jonathan Tyler Vazquez was in possession a drugcalled “Shatter” which is potent THC extract. Vazquez was arrested for felonypossession of a controlled substance penalty group 2 over 4 grams but less than400 and possession of pain pills less than 28 grams. On August 3rd, MillsCounty Deputies received a tip that there was an individual wanted on FederalDrug Charges working on a ranch in Mills County. Deputies conductedsurveillance on the property and were able to identify 40 year old NathanielJeremiah Salazar on the property. Deputies executed the warrant and tookSalazar into custody for a warrant for drug related offenses. The United StatesMarshall’s Service came within hours and took custody of the individual. OnAugust 4th Mills County Deputies and Texas State Troopers conducted a trafficstop on US 84 in Goldthwaite for a traffic offense. Occupants of the vehiclewere identified as 33 year old Justin Gibson of Llano, Texas and 41year oldBarbara Jean Kirkland of Llano, Texas. During the stop officers becamesuspicious that the individuals were possibly transporting narcotics. A TexasDepartment of Public Safety K-9 was called to the scene and alerted to thevehicle for the odor of illegal narcotics. Officers searched the car forapproximately 2 hours and discovered approximately a quarter pound ofmethamphetamine hidden in the air conditioning duct work of the vehicle.Kirkland and Gibson have been charged with manufacture and delivery ofmethamphetamine over 4 grams but less than 200 grams. They both are still incustody and remain in the Mills County Jail awaiting trial. Mills CountyDeputies spent most of the week of August 21st through August 25th in the jurytrial of 73 year old Michael Holley of Mullin, Texas. Holley was charged withaggravated sexual assault of a child and 63 counts of possession of Childpornography. The trial lasted all week and the jury returned with a guiltyverdict on all charges. There was emotional testimony by victims and familythrough this process. 35th District Judge Stephen Ellis sentenced Holley toLife imprisonment for the sexual assault of a child and 10 years for each countof child pornography which totals 630 years. Sheriff Hammonds stated that hewas very proud of the deputies on this case who have spent countless hours overthe past two years going through these horrific images of children beingvictimized and sold on the internet. “I hate that our citizens that were chosenfor this jury had to sit and view these images” Sheriff Hammonds said. SheriffHammonds stated the 35th District Attorney’s Office did super job onprosecuting this case. “This was again a fine example of Mills County Sheriff’sOffice and the 35th District Attorney’s Office diligently working together tobring closure to the victims affected by this case” said Sheriff Hammonds.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported that Mills County Sheriff’s Deputies have been busy in the recent months on investigating the distribution of illegal drugs in our community. Mills County Deputies conducted numerous undercover investigations resulting in the sale of prescription drugs, methamphetamine and marijuana. The following individuals have been arrested in the past month for charges stemming from undercover purchases of illegal drugs. Mathew Joe Lopez 33 of San Saba was arrested for felony delivery of methamphetamine in a drug free zone. Mills County Deputies arranged the purchase of methamphetamine from Lopez who agreed to meet at the Goldthwaite City Park which has enhanced the offense. The next offender is 63 year old Fabian Lee Ynostrosa of Goldthwaite who sold prescription pain killers that he was prescribed. Tammy Lynn Dotson 44 of Goldthwaite was also arrested for delivery of a controlled substance after Mills County Deputies were able to purchase 99 pain killers from Dotson and then an additional 40 more in the same day. Finally 25 year old Hector Martin Vaquera of Goldthwaite was arrested for delivery of methamphetamine in a drug free zone. Mills County Deputies served a narcotics search warrant on Vaquera’s residence in the 1500 block of Cline Street just around the corner from the Goldthwaite High School. During the execution of the warrant deputies made a substantial seizure of items related to the possession of methamphetamine. Mills County Sheriff’s Office is still continuing their efforts to investigate and arrest any individual in the illegal possession or sale of illegal drugs in our community. Sheriff Hammonds commended his staff in the jail as well as the deputies involved in the investigation and stated that a lot of resources, man hours and money went into this investigation. Sheriff Hammonds stated that there are additional arrest planned in the future based off this investigation but did not elaborate on the individuals involved.

Mills County Sheriff Clint Hammonds reports numerous arrests for the month of May. On May 1st Mills County Sheriff's deputies arrested Bruce J McDavid Junior of Maxwell, Texas for the offense of burglary of a habitation for his part in a previous burglary at a residence located on Pine Street in Goldthwaite. McDavid is currently still being held at the Mills County jail awaiting trial with bonds totaling $20,000. On May 4th, as a result of 35th District Court, 30 year old Antonio Robert Bosquez was sentenced to eight years in prison for a previous, delivery of methamphetamine, charge in Goldthwaite.

On May 5th Curtis Smith, 53 years of age, of Mullin was arrested on a warrant for felony cruelty to non-livestock animals. Smith is currently free on bond and is awaiting trial.

On May 10th, Tabby Day was arrested by Mills County deputies for a local charge of theft by check and has since posted a $500 bond and is awaiting trial.

On May 12th, Royce Edward Hashberger, 39, of Early, Texas turned himself in to the Mills County jail to sit out 10 days for violating terms of probation for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

On May 12th, Mills County deputies responded to a disturbance in the 1000 block of Parker Street in Goldthwaite. The disturbance was taking place at a local business between two employees. The victim was transported by ambulance to the hospital and 21-year-old Ryan Craig Salinas was arrested for misdemeanor assault. Salinas is currently free on $1500 bond and is awaiting trial.

On May 16th Caleb Shane Johnson, 27 years of age, of Mullin was arrested in Abilene Texas for a motion to adjudicate felony probation. Johnson had been sentenced to probation for possession of methamphetamine in Mills County and had been ordered by District judge Steven Ellis to enter into a rehab facility. Johnson reported to the facility where he only stayed a short time and then left in violation of the judge's order. Johnson is currently being held in the Mills County jail waiting to go before District Judge Stephen Ellis.

On May 27, at approximately 1:24 PM, Mills County Sheriff deputies responded to a report of a one vehicle accident on US Highway 84 W. of Goldthwaite. Deputies arrived and began investigating the crash and made contact with the driver, 36 year old Damien Gus Carmen of Hutto, Texas, who appeared to be intoxicated. Mills County deputies conducted field sobriety tests and as a result, Carmen was arrested for felony driving while intoxicated third or more. On this same date, at approximately 6:46 PM, Mills County deputies stopped a vehicle on US 183 south of Goldthwaite for a minor traffic infraction. Deputies approached the vehicle and made contact with 19-year-old Joshua Allen Auvenshine of De Leon, Texas. That time, deputies could smell the odor of marijuana emitting from inside the vehicle. Mills County deputies searched the vehicle and Auvenshine where he was found to be in possession of methamphetamine in his pants pocket. He has since been released on bond and is awaiting trial.

Finally, on May 31st at approximately 11:45 PM, Mills County deputies responded to reports of two individuals in the roadway on Highway 84 W. at County Road 189. Deputies arrived on scene where they found a male and a female subject standing on the edge of the road. It was determined by deputies that the female, identified as 17-year-old Jaycee Lynne Lenz of Brownwood, had gotten into an altercation with individuals that she was riding with on the way back to Brownwood. Lenz became uncooperative with Mills County deputies and was arrested for assault on a public servant and resisting arrest. Lenz was handcuffed and while Mills County deputies were interviewing the male individual lens was able to slip out of the handcuffs and escape custody. Mills County deputies were able to quickly apprehend Lenz again and she was transported to the Mills County jail where she was charged with evading arrest, a Class A misdemeanor, felony assault on a public servant, resisting arrest and felony escape from custody. Lenz has since made bond on all charges and is currently awaiting trial.

Sheriff Hammonds reported that the month of March into April has been busy for Sheriff’s Office personnel. On March 01, Stacie Michelle Walls 44 of Goldthwaite was returned back to Mills County to stand trial for 2 counts of forgery and possession of methamphetamine in a drug free zone. Then on March 13th 62 year Fabien Lee Ynostrosa was arrested at 3:46 PM in the 700 block of Fisher Street for public intoxication. Then on March 16th, at approximately 12:48 AM, Mills County deputies attempted to stop a suspicious vehicle in the downtown area of Goldthwaite. When the deputy activated his emergency red and blue lights, the vehicle fled and traveled south on US 183. With the assistance of the Texas Highway Patrol and Lampasas County Sheriff’s Office the vehicle was finally stopped inside Lampasas after deploying spikes strip to deflate the tires. 36 year old Stars Rahmir Rivers of Killeen was arrested and charged with felony fleeing. Rivers admitted to officers that he was under the influence of cocaine and suffered from PTSD. The subject made bond the next day.

On March 24th, Jose Ernesto Perez 23 of Manor, Texas was involved in an accident in the 130 block of Fisher Street. When deputies arrived the subject was outside of the vehicle cursing and acting erratically. Perez was arrested for no driver’s license and several other traffic offenses. During the arrest it was discovered that Perez was a documented gang member in the south Texas region. After arriving at the Mills County Jail Perez had to be physically removed from a cell and was placed in a restraint chair. It was later learned from Perez that he was under the influence of narcotics during the time of his arrest. On this same date Mills County Deputies following up on child welfare concern executed a narcotics search warrant at 750 Farm Road 572 in Mills County. As a result of the search warrant 31 year old Kendra Annette Lee was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and felony abandoning/endanger a child. As a result of the investigation a warrant for abandoning/endanger a child was obtained for the father 35 year old Justin Allen Lee. He was not at scene at the time and turned himself in at a later date and both subjects are free on bond and are awaiting trial.

On April 4, Caleb Shane Johnson turned himself into the Mills County Jail to be transported to a drug treatment facility. On April 7, at approximately 11:07 PM Gerado Hernandez 212 of Baird, Texas was arrested for public intoxication. Then on April 9, at approximately 6:30 PM, Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance on Sherman Street in Mullin. As a result of the call 32 year old Adam Byron Coston of Brownwood was arrested for public intoxication. On April 19th at approximately 10:00 PM, Deputies stopped the driver of a vehicle for a traffic violation. During the stop marijuana and Ecstasy were seized and as a result 26 year old Jessica Carey Martin of Austin, Texas for possession of marijuana and driving while license suspended. The passenger 27 year old Kelsey Nicole Capwell of Lubbock was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled substance in a drug free zone. On April 20th, Mills County Deputies served an arrest warrant in a residence in Mullin on 39 year old Beverly Fay Escamillia of Mullin of forgery of a financial instrument.

Finally on Thursday April 27th at approximately 3:30 PM, Mills County Law Enforcement was called to assist in a motorcycle pursuit that started in Gatesville, Texas. Officers from Coryell County, Gatesville Police and Texas State Troopers were in chase reporting speeds of up to 130 M.P.H. Mills County officials joined the pursuit on US 84 east of Goldthwaite and followed to assist. The motorcycle began experiencing mechanical difficulties and finally stopped at US 84 west and Farm Road 1029. The driver 35 year old Aaron Baker Carpenter of Gatesville Ashley Annette Beeson 27, of Nolanville were arrested for felony fleeing. It was determined that during the arrest Carpenter was a member of the outlaw motorcycle gang “Cossacks”. The motorcycle was stolen and Carpenter was in possession of a handgun and it was determined that Carpenter was currently under indictment for the deadly Twin Peaks shooting in Waco, Texas

February was an extremely busy month with arrests and court convictions according to Sheriff Clint Hammonds. On February 1st Travis Wayne Gossett was court ordered to the Mills County Jail to be incarcerated in a drug rehab unit. While incarcerated Gossett damaged a television remote while in jail and has now been charged with criminal mischief and his felony drug probation has been revoked. Gossett remains in the Mills County Jail awaiting court to answer for the probation violation. On February 6th at approximately 9:21 AM Fabien Lee Ynostrosa 62 of Goldthwaite was arrested for criminal trespass after violating a warning for a residence. Ynostrosa made bond on this charge and was arrested again on February 13th for public intoxication in the 1600 block of Pine Street. On February 11th, Mills County Deputies stopped 42 year old Chad Broom of Fort Worth, Texas for speeding. During the contact deputies could smell marijuana emitting from the car. A probable cause search of the vehicle revealed marijuana, methamphetamine and prescription pills. Broom was charged with felony possession charges and has since made bond.

On February 15th the following individuals appeared before the Honorable 35th District Judge Steven Ellis in Mills County for sentencing. Tyler Alexander May 20 years of age from Ballinger, Texas was sentenced to 2 years adjudicated probation for 3 counts of burglary of a habitation and one count unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Walter Carr 55 years of age was sentenced to 4 years imprisonment for possession of a controlled substance over 4 grams less than 400. Xavier Carrillo Charles 30 of San Angelo, Texas was sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for the offense of driving while intoxicated 3rd or more. Finally 51 year old Sammy Don Walls of Goldthwaite, Texas was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment for the offense of possession of methamphetamine less than a gram in a drug free zone and 1 count forgery to defraud the elderly.

On February 16th, Matthew J Jackson 47 years old of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for fail to register as a sex offender. On February 3rd, Mills County Deputies responded to a disturbance at a residence on Texas 16 south of Goldthwaite. While interviewing Jackson it was discovered he was a sex offender. Further investigation by deputies revealed that Jackson was residing in Goldthwaite and had not registered with the Sheriff’s Office. A warrant was obtained and he was arrested and released later on bond. On February 20, Mills County Deputies arrested Tommy Gene Harell 39 of Brownwood, Texas for driving while license invalid after being stopped for speeding. On February 22, 43 year old Charles Christopher Cravens was taken into custody to serve 90 days in the county jail as a result of a criminal mischief that had occurred at a local business.

On February 28th Raymond Gonzales Diaz 65 of Early, Texas was arrested for felony driving while intoxicated. A Mills County Deputy had just left the Mills County Law Enforcement Center travelling south on Priddy Road when the deputy noticed a vehicle travelling north and nearly hit the deputy head on. Diaz was stopped and further investigation revealed that Diaz was extremely intoxicated. The deputy then searched the vehicle and recovered marijuana from inside the truck. Diaz was charged for driving while intoxicated 3rd or more and possession of marijuana. Diaz made bond the next day.

On Sunday, January 15, 2017, the Mills County Sheriff’s Office assisted by the Texas Highway Patrol executed a narcotics search warrant at 208 East Sherman In Mullin, Texas. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office had obtained enough probable cause whereby Mills County Judge Kirk Fulk issued the warrant. During the execution of the warrant a small amount of methamphetamine was seized along with a firearm. 35 year old Jessica Lorrene Thornton and 41 year old David Kendall Gossett of Mullin were arrested and charged with numerous felony charges ranging from manufacture of methamphetamine in a drug free zone and possession of firearm by felon. 40 Year old John Wesley Gossett was also taken into custody for felony possession charges in a drug free zone. Sheriff Hammonds stated that his staff have been working diligently to pursue local individuals that are involved in the distribution of illegal drugs in our community. Sheriff Hammonds stated that during the investigation it was learned that David Gossett and Jessica Thornton are members of the Aryan Nation a documented criminal prison and street gang.

In other news on December 26, 2016, 32 year old Malinda Marie Sims of Goldthwaite was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. Sims had been stopped for a traffic violation when the drugs were discovered. Sims has since been released on bond. On January 02, 2017, Mills County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on US 183 south. During the stop deputies gained consent to search the vehicle and recovered two handguns. 47 year old Ervin Halmayr and Rodney Paquinn both from New Mexico were arrested for unlawful carrying of a weapon. This charge stemmed from Halmayr and Paquinn’s affiliation with the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle club and their possession of a firearm. Both individuals have since made bond and are awaiting trial.

Finally on January 19, 2017, Mills County Deputies and Texas Highway Patrol conducted a traffic stop on US 183 south of Goldthwaite. The driver identified as 26 year old Jason Daniel Toner of Goldthwaite was arrested for driving while license invalid. Deputies then were attempting to identify a female passenger who had given her sisters identifying information. Through a photograph officer were finally able to identify 37 year old Geneva Costello of Mullin. Costello had given false information in fear she might have a warrant but it was discovered that she was not wanted. Costello was then arrested for giving fictitous identifying information. During Costello’s arrest a small amount of methamphetamine was located and prescriptions pills. Costello was also charged for possession of methamphetamine and possession of a dangerous drug.

Mills County Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous arrests and calls for service. On November 25, 2016 at approximately 3:55 PM Mills County Sheriff's officials along with Texas Department of Public Safety troopers responded to a report of a vehicle that had struck a fixture and then left the scene of the accident. While law enforcement officials were responding they received another report of the same suspect vehicle striking another vehicle on US 84 west of Mullin. Law enforcement officers arrived on scene and arrested 48-year-old Terri Joy Baker of Belton Texas for felony intoxication assault with the vehicle resulting in serious bodily injury, duty on striking a fixture in failure to stop and render aid a third-degree felony. On November 28 the Mills County jail received 23-year-old Eric Wayne Murphy of Lake Jackson Texas for the offense of failed to appear on a resisting arrest charge as a result of a previous investigation. Then on November 29, 2016 at approximately 1:54 PM 25-year-old Valori Ann Shelton of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for the offense of theft of property over $100 but less than $750.

Mills County Sheriff's office investigators have been working a burglary of a residence inside the City of Goldthwaite. As a result of the deputy’s hard work and persistence, on December 1, 2016 at approximately 9:45 AM 19-year-old Tyler Tindell was arrested and charged with a second-degree felony burglary of a habitation. Tindell has since been released on bond and is currently awaiting trial. On December 6, 2016 at approximately 10:49 AM Mills County Sheriff's deputies executed a warrant on 29-year-old Taylor Alan Smith of Mullin for the offense of burglary of a habitation with intent to commit a felony. This charge is a result of a call earlier in the week were deputies responded to a report of an individual that entered a residence without consent of the owner were a gun was produced during the altercation. Luckily during the altercation the gun did not discharge and as a result of the assault there are only minor injuries. Smith has since been released on bond and is awaiting trial. On December 9, 2016 at approximately 8:40 PM Mills County Sheriff's office responded to a report of a possible intoxicated person in a business on US 84 west of Goldthwaite. Information relayed to the Mills County dispatcher was that the individual had been driving around in circles in the parking lot and occasionally stopping and getting out in the parking lot and dancing around his vehicle. Deputies arrived on scene and located the individual and identified him as 53-year-old Robert Dale Young of Hamilton Texas. Young was arrested and charged with the offense of public intoxication and placed in the Mills County jail.

As a result of County court on December 7 at approximately 11:20 AM 43-year-old Shannon Doyle Bird of Salt Lake city Utah was taken into custody for the offense of bail jumping and failed to appear on the unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

On December 18 at approximately 9:16 AM Texas Department of Public Safety troopers responded to report of an individual inside of a vehicle on County Road 312 that was possibly intoxicated. As a result Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers arrested 21-year-old Chase Robert Hoyer of Goldthwaite for the offense of driving while intoxicated and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Hoyer has since been released on bonds and is currently awaiting trial.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds and the staff of the Mills County Sheriff's office wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Safe New Year.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported that his office has been very busy during the end of October into November transitioning from the old Jail into the new Law Enforcement Center. Sheriff Hammonds commended his entire staff for the work that they have done during the move and going into operation at the new facility. “Unfortunately for a couple of weeks we were minus a jail for the move but that did not stop calls for service and arrest” said Sheriff Hammonds. Sheriff Hammonds stated “ I want to Thank Comanche County Sheriff Jeff Lambert for doing all of our booking and intake of prisoners while we were closed”. The Texas Commission on Jail Standards commissioned the Mills County Jail on November, 9 and prisoners were moved into the new jail on November 14th. The following were arrests that were made in the recent month.

On November 3, 2016, Deputies responded to a report of an individual attempting to get in a car with a crow bar in front of Subway on Fisher Street. Deputies arrived and identified the individual as 29 year old Stephen Scott Smith of Austin, Texas. Deputies soon discovered that Smith was accompanied by two other individuals identified as 33 year old Stacey Aleman and 56 year old David Tobias Bland both of Lampasas, Texas. Deputies had seen Aleman go inside the business while they were approaching and began interviewing Smith. Deputies began trying to identify Smith and his connection to the car. Deputies saw an object in the waistline of Smith during the interview forcing them to draw their weapons and securing Smith in handcuffs. Deputies then recovered a loaded .357 magnum handgun from the waistline of Smith. Deputies then went inside the store and were finally able to make contact with Aleman who had been in the restroom for some time. Deputies then searched the restroom and recovered another loaded handgun in the trash can in the restroom. The individuals had met in Goldthwaite and were traveling in two different vehicles one of which belonged to Bland. A search was conducted on all parties and vehicles and the following arrests were made. Smith was charged with 1) Unlawful Carrying of a weapon, Aleman was charged with 1) unlawful possession of firearm by a felon, 2) tampering with evidence, 3) possession of methamphetamine, 4) fail to identify fugitive from justice, 5) fraudulent use of identifying information and 2 Felony Lampasas County, Texas warrants. Bland was charged with 1) Possession of methamphetamine and 2) Unlawful possession of firearm by felon. Also during the investigation deputies seized approximately $5,000 in cash and one vehicle.

On November 4, 2016, 23 year old Travis Wayne Gossett of Mullin was arrested on a warrant for a motion to adjudicate probation for the offense of Manufacture and Delivery of Controlled substance in a drug free zone. Gossett has since made bond and is awaiting trial. Also on this date 27 year old Alejandro Cabrera of Hutto was brought back to Mills County on charges from an incident earlier this year for felony driving while intoxicated, escape from custody and unlawful use of identifying information. On November 7, 2016, Deputies responded to a report of an individual that had just broken a window out of a residence in the 900 block of East Front in Goldthwaite. Deputies responded and as a result of the investigation 52 year old Gina Micheline Beaulieu of Goldthwaite was arrested and charged with criminal mischief and currently free on bond awaiting trial. Then on November 11, 2016, Mills County Deputies responded to a report of a possible intoxicated driver on US 84 west of Mullin. Deputies responded to the area and located a vehicle matching the description parked on the side of the road. Deputies made contacted with three males identified as 24 year old Juan Guzman-Chacha, 37 year old David Huerta Hernandez both of Del Valle, Texas and 22 year old Elmer Vasquez of San Antonio. Deputies determined all three individuals were intoxicated and all were placed under arrest for public intoxication.

On November 14, 2016, 42 year old Edward Joseph Dotson turned himself in to the Mills County Jail to serve 30 days for a probation violation for criminal mischief. Deputies then responded to a local business in regards to an unwanted individual and identified 24 year old Jonathan Bennett of Goldthwaite who was wanted on a probation violation for endangering a child. Bennett was placed under arrest and later made bond. Also on this date as a result of 35th District Court 42 year old Marty Ray Crawford of San Saba, Texas was sentenced to 5 years prison for his involvement in some recent burglaries in Goldthwaite investigated by Mills County Sheriff’s Office. Then on November 16, 2016 as a result of Mills County Court 44 year old Misty Dawn Berryhill was arrested for motion to revoke probation for driving while license invalid.

On November 18, 2016, 36 year old Lacee Brena Geeslin of Goldthwaite was arrested on warrants for bail jumping and failure to appear for possession of a controlled substance violation and was later released on bond. 28 year old Norma Correra was sentenced to serve 30 days in the Mills County Jail for violating her probation for injury to the elderly. On this same date Texas DPS Troopers stopped a vehicle west of Mullin and arrested 30 year old Antonio Rioz and 24 year old Leigh Andra Garcia for multiple warrants out of Lubbock and Ector Counties ranging from assault to the theft. Finally on November 19, Texas Game wardens were patrolling the west part of Mills County and stopped a suspicious vehicle on County Road 549. As a result 30 year old John Hays Stockton III was arrested for 1) driving while license invalid, 2) possession of marijuana and 3) unlawful possession of a firearm by felon.

Sheriff Hammonds and the staff of the Mills County Sheriff’s Office would like to wish everyone a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving Holiday!

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous arrests at the end of September through the first part of October, beginning with the arrest of 24 year old David Matthew Hollbach of Goldthwaite. On September 19 Mills County Sheriff's office responded to a report of a small child in the middle of Texas Highway 16 N. The Sheriff's office was able to identify the residence were the child belonged on US 84. Sheriff's deputies made numerous attempts to contact individuals in the residence and only after other family members arrived were they able to awaken Holbach. Holbach was unaware that the child had left the residence. Holbach was arrested for abandon or endangering a child with criminal negligence. Holbach has since been released on bond and is awaiting trial. On September 20 at approximately 3 PM Mills County deputies investigated a report of a possible assault. As a result of the investigation 51-year-old Kelly Knight was arrested for a Class C misdemeanor assault. Knight paid the fine a short time later and was released from jail.

On September 20 at approximately 7:30 AM Mills County deputies were called to investigate criminal mischief at a business on Fisher Street. While investigating the scene it was discovered that someone had thrown a rock through the front window of the business. Mills County deputies reviewed security video footage from the business and were able to identify 43-year-old Charles Christopher Cravens of Goldthwaite. Mills County deputies were able to obtain a probable cause warrant for Cravens arrest for criminal mischief. On September 21 Cravens was arrested by Mills County deputies for the offense of criminal mischief. During the interview with Cravens he admitted to the offense and was later released on bond. On September 22 at approximately 2 PM Mills County deputies responded to a report of a possible intoxicated driver on US 84 west of Mullin. Mills County deputies were able to locate the vehicle and as a result 57-year-old Martha Sue Ostrander was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated second offense. On September 28 at approximately 11 AM Mills County deputies responded to report of a disturbance in the 1400 block of Hutchings Street. As a result of this call 32-year-old Matthew Belveal of Goldthwaite was placed under arrest and charge with assault bodily injury against a family member. Belveal has since been released on bond and is awaiting trial.

On October 2 at approximately 12:20 AM, Mills County deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 1500 block of Parker Street. As a result 31-year-old Randy Clay bolt of Goldthwaite was arrested for disorderly conduct. Then on October 3 at approximately 11:30 PM Mills County deputies arrested 31-year-old Adam Byron Coston for public intoxication at the intersection of US Highway 84 and FM 573 W. in Mullin. October 7 at approximately 1:47 PM, Mills County officials arrested Alexander Dylan Warren 33 years of age from Abilene Texas. The city of Goldthwaite requires that all solicitors report to the Mills County Sheriff's office to register for a solicitors permit. When potential solicitors to come to the Sheriff's office they are identified and checked for any potential criminal records. As a result of this routine work Warren was arrested for a theft of property warrant out of Taylor County, Texas.

On October 7 at approximately 7:15 PM Mills County deputies were working routine traffic enforcement on US 183 S. of Goldthwaite. Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on a 2009 Hyundai for a registration violation. Contact was made with the driver, 23-year-old Jory Shelton Cameron of Clyde Texas and one passenger, 21-year-old Angela Mackenzie Cotton of Austin, Texas. During the contact the smell of burnt marijuana was emitting from inside the vehicle. Mills County deputies assisted by the Texas Highway Patrol initiated a probable cause search of the vehicle and recovered approximately 5 pounds of marijuana, a considerable amount of methamphetamine and cocaine. Also during the search almost $6000 in cash was discovered inside the vehicle along with articles believed to be used in the distribution of illegal narcotics. Both Cameron and Cotton were charged with numerous controlled substance violations, possession of marijuana and money laundering. Both individuals have since made bond and are awaiting trial.

The Mills County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for a full-time Patrol Deputy. This position performs a wide variety of law enforcement activities. Tasks are service and protection oriented, and includes collecting and dispensing information, arbitrating disputes, providing assistance, protecting and recovering property, preventing and investigating crime, and providing other public protection services. Duties include an element of personal danger; i.e., exposure to life-threatening circumstances, apprehending criminals, and transporting prisoners. The candidate must be able to act without close supervision and must be able to exercise independent judgment. Deputies perform duties in accordance with Federal, State, and Local statutes and established policies and procedures of the Mills County Sheriff’s Office. Minimum Qualifications: Must hold a current Basic (or higher) Peace Officer Certification from TCOLE, must possess a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver’s license. Mills County offers competitive pay and excellent benefits. Applications may be picked up at the Mills County Sheriff’s Office 1007 5th St. Goldthwaite, TX 76844.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported several arrest in the recent weeks for warrants, drugs and arson. On Sunday September 4, at approximately 11:30 PM, 50 year old Irene Arellano of Sweetwater, Texas was arrested during a traffic stop for a warrant for theft by check in Scurry County. Arellano has since posted bond and has been released. On Wednesday, September 7, at approximately 10:30 PM, 47 year old Timmy Lee Sims of Mullin, Texas was stopped by Mills County Deputies for an expired registration on US 84 west of Goldthwaite. During the stop deputies noticed Sims was extremely nervous and deputies asked for consent to search the vehicle. Sims consented and deputies recovered approximately 1.5 grams of Methamphetamine from the seat area of the vehicle along with other drug paraphernalia. Sims was placed under arrest for possession of a controlled substance a Third Degree Felony and was released the following day after posting $12,500 bond. On Monday September 12, 43 year old Joseph Hilscher of Dublin was arrested by Mills County Deputies for warrants out of Comanche County, Texas for bail jumping and failure to appear for offenses in Comanche County.

Sheriff Hammonds was is also pleased to report that there has been an arrest made in the July 20th fire of the playground at the Methodist Church in Goldthwaite. Mills County Deputies have been working continuously with fire investigators and the state crime lab in Austin, Texas. Through the collection of evidence and interviewing numerous individuals Mills County Sheriff’s Inv. Stephanie Brown and Chief Deputy Chris Green arrested 20 year old Pedro Buriciago Delgado of Goldthwaite on Tuesday, September 13th. Delgado is in custody being held in Burnett County for the offense of First Degree Felony Arson. This case is still under investigation at this time and no further details will be released.

On September 15, 2016, the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigation Division executed a search and arrest warrant at a residence in Mullin, Texas. As a result 41 year old Jason Whisenhunt of Mullin was arrested for Online Solicitation of a Minor Child. Whisenhunt was released on bond later that day. On this same date Mills County Sheriff’s Office were called to assist the United States Marshall’s Service in executing a felony warrant at a residence near Mullin on County Road 508. The Marshall’s Service and Mills County Authorities were able to arrest 64 year old William James Carr of Cross Plains, Texas for a warrant out of Parker County, Texas for Motion to Revoke Probation/Aggravated Assault w/a Deadly Weapon.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reports that there have been several new arrests in the last two weeks. On Monday, August 22 at approximately 9:40 AM, Investigator Stephanie Brown arrested 25 year old Crystal Gayle McConnell of Goldthwaite on a charge of Simple Assault. McConnell was released later that day on $500 bond.

On Monday, August 22 35th Judicial District Judge Stephen Ellis sentenced 31 year old Michael Edward Ynostrosa of Goldthwaite to serve a 30 year prison term with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Institutional Division. Ynostrosa was originally arrested in January 2016 with multiple charges including Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 1 (Methamphetamine) over 4 grams, in a Drug Free Zone – a First Degree Felony, Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon – Class A Misdemeanor, Possession of a Dangerous Drug – Class A Misdemeanor, Possession of Marijuana <2oz – Class B Misdemeanor.

On Tuesday, August 23 at approximately 6:56 PM Deputies Johnny Brown and James Purcell responded to the Mullin ISD Gymnasium in reference to a fight in progress. The fight occurred during the schools volleyball game against Early High School. After an extensive investigation, several suspects were identified as being involved. On Wednesday, August 24, Investigator Stephanie Brown and Chief Deputy Chris Green reviewed the case with the Mills County Attorney and determined that multiple charges would be filed and arrest warrants were drawn up for several individuals. The arrest warrants were served later the same day on;

39 year old Lori Anne Day of Mullin on charges of Disruptive Activities/Public School and Disorderly Conduct. Day was released on bonds totaling $3,000.

25 year old Cheyenne McCulloch of Mullin on charges of Assault Causing Bodily Injury, Criminal Mischief, Disruptive Activities/Public School and Disorderly Conduct. McCulloch was later released on bonds totaling $6,000.

36 year old Dorthy “Dottie” Best Coston of Mullin on charges of Assault Causing Bodily Injury, Disorderly Conduct and Disruptive Activities/Public School. Coston was later released on bonds totaling $4,500.

36 year old Serena Ann Spivey of Mullin on charges of Disruptive Activities/Public School and Disorderly Conduct. Spivey was later released on bonds totaling $3,000.

On Tuesday August 30, 32 year old Christy Escovedo of Pflugerville was sentenced by Mills County Judge Kirk Fulk to serve 20 days County Jail time for a charge of Possession of Marijuana <2oz.

The Mills County Sheriff’s Office reported a few arrest in the past week. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Highway Patrol responded to a minor accident in the parking lot of a local business on Saturday, August 13th. Texas Highway Patrol conducted the crash investigation which resulted in the arrest of 45 year old Steven Wade Bridges of Goldthwaite for driving while intoxicated. Bridges was transported to the Mills County Jail where he was released on bond the following day.

Shortly afterwards The Mills County Jail received an inmate wanted for a Mills County Warrant for the offenses motion to adjudicate aggravated assault from a previous charge. The individual is identified as 21 year old Michael Allen Moore of Bovina, TX.

On Sunday, August 14th at approximately 12:48 PM, a Mills County deputy stopped the driver of a vehicle for traffic violation on US 183 south of Goldthwaite. During the stop the deputy made contact with 30 year old Kevin Douglas Kelly of Austin, Texas who had just finished smoking marijuana in the vehicle. The deputy conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and recovered THC laced candy and marijuana. Kelly was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance penalty group 2 over 4 grams but less than 400 grams and possession of marijuana. Kelly has since been released on bond and is awaiting trial.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous arrest from mid-July until the first part of August. On July 18, 2016 at approximately 7:18 PM, 24 year old Marissa Shantal Navarro of Lubbock, Texas was arrested for possession of marijuana after a routine traffic stop on US 183 south of Goldthwaite.

On Friday, August 22, 2016 Mills County Deputies were investigating child welfare issues in Mullin at a residence located at 505 S. 6th Street. As a result of the investigation 28 year old Erica Nicole Shelton of Mullin was arrested for Possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), tampering with evidence and endangering a child all of which are felony charges. Shelton was transported to the Mills County Jail where she magistrated by Judge Leland Knight and released on bonds totaling $27,500.

The last week in July several individuals from Mills and Hamilton counties surrendered themselves to Mills County authorities as a result of numerous felony indictments from Comanche County, Texas. Christi Morgan of Priddy, Texas was arrested on a warrant charging Aggravated Assault w/deadly weapon, deadly conduct and unlawful restraint. Roy Lee Seider also of Priddy was arrested for Comanche County charge of aggravated assault w/deadly weapon. 29 year old David Allen Seider and 50 year old Virgil Ray Seider of Hamilton were arrested for aggravated assault w/deadly weapon, deadly conduct and unlawful restraint. All the above individuals have been released on bond and are awaiting trial.

On Tuesday July 26, at approximately 3:00 PM, 22 year old Jorge Armando Melgoza of Goldthwaite was arrested on a warrant for sexual assault. The arrest was the result of an investigation that began on July 23rd after investigators were alerted by Brown County authorities that child under 17 was at the Brownwood Regional Hospital and had made an outcry of being assaulted. Investigators were able to gather enough probable cause to obtain a warrant for Melgoza. He is currently free on a $40,000 bond for the offense and is awaiting trial.

Then on Wednesday, July 27, 35 year old Tammy Lynn Jones of Austin was arrested for driving while license invalid and was later released on bond.

On Friday August 5, at approximately 8:26 PM, 59 year old Harry Mitchell of Brady, Texas was arrested for bail jumping for a Driving while intoxicated.

Shortly thereafter at approximately 12:54 AM, Deputies responded to a disturbance at a residence located on US 84 east of Goldthwaite. Deputies arrived and found a male intoxicated and trashing the residence. After interviewing witnesses it was determined that 45 year old Richard Gary Forester had assaulted another male party in the residence. Forester was arrested for misdemeanor assault and placed in the County Jail.

On Saturday, August 6, at approximately 9:04 PM, Mills County Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 1600 block of Fifth Street in Goldthwaite. As a result of the call 51 year old Camie Gumibellot of Goldthwaite was arrested and charged with misdemeanor assault. Guimbellot has since pled in this case and is laying out her fine in the Burnett County Jail.

Finally on Monday August 7, at approximately 7:30 AM, Mills County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an individual unresponsive in a vehicle on Farm Road 2005. Mills County Deputies arrived and found 45 year old Hermenegildo Maldonado-Guzman passed out in the driver seat of his vehicle. Deputies arrested and charged him with public intoxication and placed him in the Mills County Jail.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous arrests this past week as result of routine calls and traffic stops in Mills County. On July 2, 2016 at approximately 2:52 PM, Deputy James Purcell had just finished responding to a call in Mullin and was traveling east on US 84 when he checked the driver of a vehicle traveling at 105 M.P.H. Deputy Purcell stopped the vehicle and identified the driver as 37 year old Rachel Charis Donaho of Brownwood, Texas. During the stop it was determined that Donaho was operating under an invalid license and also had an arrest warrant for assault family violence. Deputy Purcell advised Donaho that she was under arrest and Donaho surrendered a bag of marijuana in her possession. Donhao was also charged with possession of marijuana.

On July 4, 2016, at approximately 5:03 PM, Trooper Mark Owens initiated a traffic stop on US 183 south resulting in the arrest of 27 year old Matthew Ray Liggins and 40 year old Lasheba Covington both of Abilene, Texas. Liggins was charged with driving while license invalid and also had a warrant for Felony Theft out of Taylor County, Texas. A search of the vehicle revealed a pistol that had been in Covingtons’ possession and a routine check revealed that she was a convicted felon and currently on parole from prison. Covington was charged with felony unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. Liggins was released on bond while Covington remains in Mills County custody and is being housed in Burnett, Texas.

On July 7, 2016, Inv. Stephanie Brown took a report of sexual assault of a child that had occurred in Goldthwaite previously. As a result of the investigation 19 year old Garrett Reed Mullings of Goldthwaite was arrested for aggravated sexual assault of a child. This case is still under investigation and Garrett remains in the Mills County Jail with a bond of $55,000.

On July 8, at approximately 8:41 PM, Trooper Mark Owens attempted to stop the driver of a vehicle for a traffic violation but when Trooper Owens activated the emergency lights the driver failed to stop. Trooper Owens pursued the driver to a residence on County Road 450 where the driver 35 year old Joseph Robert McElwain Jr. of Goldthwaite was apprehended and charged with fleeing in a vehicle.

On July 9, at approximately 9:44 PM, Trooper Owens arrested 61 year old Roosevelt McTier Jr. for driving while license invalid. Then on July 11, 2016 Chief Deputy Chris Green served a warrant on 31 year old Andrew Lee Heath of Goldthwaite for a charge of theft. Both McTier and Heath have posted bond and are awaiting trial.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous arrest for the past month beginning with the arrest of 27-year-old Vanessa Yvette Gonzales formerly of Goldthwaite Texas. Gonzales has been a fugitive for the past several years and is charged with #1) Motion to Revoke Sexual Assault, #2) Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and #3) Sex Offender Duty to Register. Gonzales was apprehended on May 31, 2016 in McLennan County and is currently free on bond. On June 15, 2016 20-year-old Trey Ryan Varner of Abilene Texas was arrested on a warrant for Motion to Adjudicate for the Felony offense of Money Laundering. Varner had been previously arrested by Mills County deputies for transporting currency for the purchase of marijuana in the Austin area. Varner is also currently out on bond awaiting trial.

On June 15, 2016 at 29-year-old Antonio Robert Bosquez was arrested in court for an outstanding warrant from Gillespie County for the offense of Assault Causes Bodily Injury. Bosquez was released on bond and is awaiting trial. Then on June 16, 2016 after receiving numerous crime stopper tips on the recent burglary of the Eagle carwash on Fisher Street. 25-year-old Jordan Noel Doucette of Brownwood was arrested for #1) Felony Criminal Mischief and #2) Burglary of a Coin-Operated Machine. Mills County Sheriff deputies have posted images of surveillance video on the Mills County Sheriff Facebook page and received numerous tips which resulted in the identification of Doucette. Doucette is currently free on bonds totaling $16,000 and is awaiting trial. On June 16, 2016, Investigator Stephanie Brown arrested 32-year-old Juan Armando Anzua Gomez of Goldthwaite for the offense of Sexual Assault of a Child. Gomez is accused of continuous sexual assault of two minor children. Investigators were able to obtain a partial confession from Gomez to allegations of the assault. Gomez is currently in custody with bonds totaling $50,000. This case is still currently

On Sunday, June 26, 2016 Mills County Sheriff deputies responded to a report of a disturbance at residence located on Farm Road 573 S. of Mullin. During the course of the call deputies were alerted that a gun was involved. Numerous deputies and Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Wardens arrived and assisted on the call. Deputies and started interviewing individuals involved and found that 61 year old Judy Freeman Curtis had fired a shot in the direction of her husband 65 year old George William Curtis both of Mullin, Texas. Another individual identified as 55 year old Tommy Wesley Wade also of Mullin, Texas was asked to hide the gun involved in the shooting. Law enforcement officers searched the residence and out buildings and recovered the gun in a barn. Judy Curtis was charged with #1) Aggravated Assault w/ a Deadly Weapon, #2) Assault Family Violence, and #3) Poss. Of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine). George Curtis was arrested and charged with #1) Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine), #2) Assault Family Violence, and #3) Possession of marijuana. Tommy Wade was determined to be a convicted felon and was charged with the following #1)Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon and #2)Tampering with Evidence. All these individuals are currently free on bond at this time.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported on criminal cases that had been previously investigated by his office that resulted in court actions. On May 18, 2016 Denny Beach pled guilty to unauthorized use of a motor vehicle before 35th District Judge Stephen Ellis. Beach was sentenced to 1 year in State Jail for his part in the offense. The charge stemmed from an investigation conducted by the Mills County Sheriff’s Office on May 11, 2015 involving the theft of 2 vehicles and a firearm from a local business. During the investigation multiple suspects were identified and arrested as well.

On May 24th and 25th, District Judge Stephen Ellis empaneled a jury to hear the case of 46 year old Sidney Alex Work of Bastrop, Texas. Work was arrested and charged previously for possession of a controlled substance in a drug free zone and tampering with evidence. The jury deliberation returned a guilty verdict and on June 1st Judge Stephen Ellis sentenced Work to six years for possession of a controlled substance and 2 years for tampering with evidence. Work filed an appeal and is currently free on an appeal bond until the case is reviewed by the Texas 3rd Court of Appeals.

In other news Sheriff Hammonds stated that on May 30, 2016, Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on US 183 south resulting in the arrest of two Salt Lake City, Utah residents. The individuals were identified as 42 year old Julee Elaine Bird and Shannon Doyle Bird. A consent search of the vehicle revealed a loaded .45 caliber pistol and a small amount of marijuana in the vehicle. Julee was charged with unlawful carrying weapon and Shannon was charged with unlawful possession of firearm by a felon.

On June 3, 2016, 40 year old Brandy Dang Free of San Saba, Texas was arrested on a warrant for burglary of a building and on June 4, co-defendant 41 year old Marty Ray Crawford also of San Saba, Texas was arrested for the same offense. This charge is a result of an investigation conducted by the Mills County Sheriff’s Office into the burglary of some storage units in Goldthwaite back in March of 2016. Deputies were able to identify the suspects and recover property taken in the burglaries. Free has since posted bond and Crawford is currently in custody being housed in the Comanche County Jail.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reports that another crime stoppers tip has led to the arrest of two Goldthwaite residents for possession of methamphetamine. Sheriff Hammonds stated that on Thursday, April 21, 2016, Deputies Johnny Brown and Rick Pickard went to residence located on Farm Road 575 to follow up on a Heart of Texas Crime Stoppers Tip. Deputies made contact with and identified the occupants of the residence as 47 year old Jimmy Wilson Spurlock Jr. and 45 year old Tabby Soto Day. Mr. Spurlock had an outstanding warrant out of Henderson County, Texas. During the service of the warrant deputies were given consent to search the residence and vehicles at the home. A search revealed that both of individuals were in violation of approximately 21 controlled substance violations and a small amount of methamphetamine was recovered from a vehicle at the residence. Spurlock and Day were both charged with one count of possession of a controlled substance PG1 (Methamphetamine) a state jail felony and 21 counts of various possession of controlled substance violations. The two remain in custody with bonds totaling over $100,000 each.

The Mills County Sheriff’s Office has recently been following up on Crime Stopper tips in regards to the distribution of methamphetamine in Goldthwaite. Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported that on Monday, April 11, 2016, Mills County Law Enforcement stopped a stolen vehicle from Lubbock, TX leaving a suspected drug house at 1701 Cline Street next to the Goldthwaite Elementary School. The driver 27 year old Christopher Mantia and his 27 year old wife Brenda both of Goldthwaite were arrested for felony Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. During the course of this investigation Mills County Officials later went to the residence on Cline Street and met with the resident 23 year old Chris Michael Hoffman of Goldthwaite. Deputies were granted permission to search the residence and recovered approximately 5 grams of methamphetamine and a gun from inside the house. Hoffman was arrested and charged with First Degree Felony Possession of Methamphetamine in a Drug Free Zone and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by Felon. Shortly after the arrest Mills County Sheriff’s Officers went to a residence located at 802 Parker Street to serve felony warrants on 50 Year old Sammy Don Walls and 42 year old Stacie Michelle Walls for charges stemming from theft of a firearm in Van Zant County, Texas. During the arrest authorities obtained consent to search the residence and recovered approximately half gram of methamphetamine. Sammy was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine in a Drug Free Zone due to the residence location to the City Park. Stacie was arrested for the warrant only at the time. Sheriff Hammonds commended the work of his staff “my deputies worked tirelessly on these cases to connect the persons involved in this distribution network of illegal drug activity in our community”. “I am extremely excited that we were able to knock down a drug house sitting right next to our elementary school” Sheriff Hammonds said. Sheriff Hammonds stated that his deputies have dedicated a lot of hours of effort and time from their families to make this impact in our community. Deputies Johnny Brown, James Purcell, Inv. Stephanie Brown and Chief Deputy Green are to be commended for their work on this case. Sheriff Hammonds also stated “I want to make sure that everyone knows the deputies are not the only ones in this fight”. “I want to send out a big public Thank You to my jail staff Melissa Womack, Deby Grba and Amy King who came in early and stayed late until all defendants were booked in”. “Jail staff are sometimes forgotten and they are an important part of the criminal justice process” said Sheriff Hammonds. Sheriff Hammonds stated that the Crime Stopper Tip was very valuable and it paid off for the community as well as the tipster who will be receiving a cash reward for their information. If you have any information about any crimes remember to submit your tips to the Heart of Texas Crime Stoppers @ 800-222-TIPS or visit our website and follow the link to the Crime Stoppers.

On Sunday, April 3, 2016 at approximately 3:35 PM, Trooper Owens conducted a traffic stop on US 183 south of Goldthwaite. 18 year old Mathew Elliott Rowe of Houston, Texas was arrested for felony possession of hash, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Rowe is currently free on bond at this time.

Mills County Sheriff’s Deputies provided security for the annual Melody Oaks Ranch Festival in Priddy during the first weekend of April. As a result 41 year old David Wayne Bolton of Hamilton, Texas was arrested Saturday, April 2, 2016 for the offense of public intoxication. Shortly afterwards another subject from Hamilton, Texas identified as 21 year old Max Landon Lowery was arrested for disorderly conduct. Both subjects were placed in the Mills County Jail where they were released the next day.

On Friday, April 1, 2016, Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Wheeler conducted a traffic stop on US 183 south of Goldthwaite. During the stop Trooper Wheeler Arrested 27 year old Thomas Edward Morris of Brownwood, Texas for Felony possession of a controlled substance, unlawful carrying of weapon and possession of marijuana. Morris is currently free on bond pending case presentation to the Grand Jury.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous arrests recently beginning with 32 year old Denny Beach of Killeen, Texas. Beach had previously been arrested for Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle in 2015 after the vehicle had been taken from a local business. Beach was arrested Thursday, March 31, 2016 for fail to appear in 35th District Court for charges stemming from the 2015 arrest. Beach is still currently in custody of the Mills County Sheriff and is being housed in Comanche County.

On Wednesday, March 16, 2013, at approximately 3:30 PM, Deputy Johnny Brown stopped a driver of a rental car on Fisher street by the Goldthwaite City Park for speeding. The driver was identified as 43 year old Christopher Elliott of Lago Vista, Texas. During the stop Deputy Brown became suspicious of Elliott and asked for consent to search the vehicle. Elliott granted permission to search and Deputy Brown found a large duffle bag in the trunk of the car containing a larger amount of marijuana. Elliott was immediately placed under arrest and transported to the Mills County Jail. The marijuana weighed in at approximately 26.5 pounds with a street value of $160,828. The investigation has led us to believe that the marijuana was picked up in Albuquerque, New Mexico and was headed to Lago Vista, Texas. Elliot was charged with felony possession of marijuana in a drug free zone due to the relation of the City Park. Elliott has since been released on bond.

The Mills County Sheriff’s Office has been steadily working thefts and burglaries throughout the county. Deputies are still recovering stolen property from recent burglaries as well as taken on new cases. On Monday, February 15 ,2016, Mills County Deputies took a report of theft of two children’s four wheelers being stolen from a residence in Goldthwaite. During the course of the investigation it discovered that a familiar face had evolved once again. 31 year old Michael Ynostrosa who owns and operates a local tree trimming service had been at the residence with his employees prior to the four wheelers being stolen. Ynostrosa had been previously arrested for possession of methamphetamine and a weapon near the Goldthwaite Middle School. Deputies worked diligently on the theft case and on Tuesday, March 1, 2015, Chief Deputy Chris Green and Investigator Stephanie Brown recovered the two four wheelers from Ynostrosa’s mother’s residence in Brownwood, Texas. At this time Theft charges are pending against Ynostrosa and his mother who has also been identified. Sheriff Hammonds is cautioning the citizens that have in the past or are considering using Ynostrosa in the future for tree services to be sure and secure your belongings and residence.

Sheriff Hammonds along with a local business owner wanted the citizens to be aware of another theft issue affecting residents. Sheriff Hammonds reported that in mid-February several local citizens had been reporting to the Mills County Sheriff’s Office of unapproved purchases on credit cards in the Killeen and Austin area. For several weeks deputies took in reports and were able to determine that most of the victims had made purchases at local businesses. Investigators began meeting with some of the local gas stations and warning them of a possible credit card breach. During their research a credit card skimmer was located that had been placed on a single fuel pump outside of a local business. It was determined that the device had been there for less than 48 hours before being discovered by the business owner. Sheriff Hammonds stated that the device is not very sophisticated and can be purchased online. Once the device is installed it has Blue Tooth technology that allows the suspects to just drive near the area to download the information without detection or affecting the normal transactions. “During our investigation we learned that this is a new trend of criminal activity that spans from the east and west coast and unfortunately they found Goldthwaite” Sheriff Hammonds said. Sheriff Hammonds wants to remind citizens to routinely check your banking accounts to ensure that they don’t fall victim and lose their hard earned money. For more information regarding credit card skimmers like this one please go to the following website: http://blogs.cisco.com/security/card_skimmers_using_bluetooth_demonstrate_security_challenges_for_borderles

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reports that criminal activity has been steady in the area resulting in numerous local drug arrest and burglaries. Sheriff Hammonds reported that On January 8, 2016 at approximately 11:03 PM, Deputies responded to a report of disturbance in the 1700 block of Cline Street. As a result 22 year old Jorge Armando Melgoza of Goldthwaite was arrested for Assault and transported to the county jail where he was released on bond the next day.

On Friday, January 22, 2016 at approximately 2:45 Mills County Deputies Johnny Brown and Stephanie Brown were patrolling the area of County Road 510 when they located a pickup parked in the road. Deputy Johnny Brown approached the vehicle and the driver pulled away. Deputies pursued after the vehicle and witnessed an occupant discard an item out of the window. Deputy Johnny Brown stopped to retrieve the item while Inv. Stephanie Brown stopped the driver of the vehicle. The occupants were identified as 18 year old Branden Wayne Horton (driver) and his father 40 year old Bradley Ryan Horton (passenger). After investigating it was found the item thrown from the vehicle that was recovered was methamphetamine. Both individuals admitted that they were about to smoke methamphetamine before being discovered by Mills County Deputies. Both individuals were taken into custody and placed in the Mills County Jail. Braden Horton is currently being held in Burnett County for 1. Possession of a controlled Substance less than 1 gram, 2. Evading Arrest with a vehicle, 3. Brown County Warrant for Motion to Adjudicate for possession of Marijuana, 4. Tamper with Evidence. The father Bradley Horton is currently in Mills County Jail for 1. Possession of a Controlled Substance less that one gram, 2. Young County Warrant for Possession of a controlled substance less than one gram.

As a result of these recent drug arrests Mills County Sheriff’s Office has been able to clear the theft and recovery of 2 four wheelers and solve several burglaries that occurred during mid-January. On January 25, 2016 Mills County Deputies were able to recover a 1997 Polaris that had been stolen for some time ago from a ranch on County Road 549. The owner of the Polaris was unaware that it had been stolen. The Polaris was seized from a residence in Mullin along with an item stolen in a burglary of the Mills County Precinct 3 barn in Mullin. Then on February 6, 2016, Mills County Deputies went to Lampasas County and recovered a 2013 Honda ATV stolen from a ranch on County Road 506 and a gas compressor that had been taken from Mills County Precinct 3. Mills County Deputies recovered just under $15,000 worth of stolen items during their investigative efforts. Sheriff Hammonds stated “this is another fine example of persistent and professional work that my deputies showed during the course of the investigation”.

On Monday, January 25, 2016, Deputy Johnny Brown stopped a vehicle at Second and Fisher in Goldthwaite for a traffic offense. During the stop it was discovered that 29 year old female passenger Amber Lynn Hester was wanted out of Hardin County, Texas for a probation violation for driving while intoxicated.

On Wednesday, January 27, 2016, at approximately 7:30 PM, Deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the 1300 Block of Trent Street. Deputies arrived and a male identified as 31 year old Michael Ynostrosa was in the process of leaving the home. Deputies could smell a strong odor of marijuana emitting from Ynostrosa’s vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed a 9mm pistol, 5.45 grams of methamphetamine and 21.37 grams of marijuana. Ynostrosa was arrested for 1. Manufature/Delivery of a Controlled Substance in a Drug Free Zone, 2. Possession of Marijuana in a Drug Free Zone, 3. Unlawful Carrying of a weapon and 4. Possession of drug paraphernalia. Sheriff Hammonds stated the drug free zone enhancements were a result of the residence being located just blocks away from the Goldthwaite Middle and High Schools. Ynostrosa is currently free on bond.

On Friday, February 5, 2016 at approximately 10:25 AM 72 year old Michael David Holley of Mullin turned himself into the Mills County Jail after being indicted for Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child. Holley had been previously arrested in 2015 for possession of child pornography. Holley is currently free on $50, 000 bond for the new offense.

Sheriff Hammonds reported numerous other arrests in the county such driving while intoxicated that were conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety Tropopers.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported several arrests for the during the first to mid part of December 2015. On Sunday, December 6, 2015 at approximately 4:09 PM, Deputy James Purcell responded to a report of a female that had called 911 and stated that she was drunk and wanted to go to jail. Deputy Purcell was able to locate the female in the 1400 block of Pine Street who is identified as 52 year old Lisa Michelle Kolb of Goldthwaite. It was determined that Kolb was intoxicated to the point she was a danger to herself and was arrested for public intoxication.

On Wednesday, December 9, at approximately 2:42 PM, Inv. Stephanie Brown arrested 45 year old Harland Keith McDavid of Goldthwaite for driving without a license. Inv. Brown had earlier in the week warned McDavid about driving. At approximately 6:04 PM , Deputy Johnny Brown made a routine traffic stop on US 183 south resulting in the arrest of 43 year old Misty Dawn Kirkham of May, Texas for the offense of driving while license invalid.

On Thursday, December 10, at approximately 6:30, Deputy Johnny Brown was on patrol in Goldthwaite when he saw previous theft suspect in the 1400 block of Fisher. Deputy Brown made contact with the suspect and found that 26 year old Christopher Michael Mantia of Goldthwaite was wanted on Felony charges in Lampasas County for forgery of a financial instrument enhanced because the victim was elderly. Mantia has since been extradited back to Lampasas to stand trial.

On Wednesday, December 16, at approximately 6:37 PM, Deputy Johnny Brown was sitting in the Red Bud parking lot when he witnessed a driver stopped at the red light at Hannah Valley and Fisher Street. Deputy Brown saw that the driver of a semi-truck was traveling south on Fisher Street. Deputy Brown reported that the light turned yellow and the driver of the semi-truck accelerated resulting in the disregard of the red light and colliding with the other driver. The semi-truck driver was identified as 25 year old Viktor Myronchuk of Gresham, OR and was placed under arrest for reckless driving. Fortunately there were no serious injuries.

On Friday, December 18, at approximately 7:04 PM, Deputy Rick Pickard received a call regarding a driver traveling at a high rate of speed had just ran into a carport in the 1700 block of Parker Street. Caller advised that the suspect vehicle left the scene and was dragging pieces of the car and carport. Deputy Pickard located the driver 23 year old Jonathan Bennett in the 1700 block of Cline Street. Bennett was placed under arrest for driving while intoxicated and driving while license invalid along with numerous traffic citations. Bennett is currently out on bond.

On Tuesday, December 21, at approximately 6:00 PM, Trooper Mark Owens and Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on a 2009 Chevrolet Impala on US 183 south of Goldthwaite. Officers made contact with 19 year old Tanner Joe Thompson of Blanket, Texas. During the stop a search of the vehicle was conducted resulting in the discovery of 220 Xanax pills in Thompson’s possession. During the interview Thompson admitted that he commonly sales the pills to individuals for profit. Thompson was arrested for Manufacturing/Delivery of a controlled substance less than 28 grams a second degree felony. Thompson currently remains in the Mills County Jail in lieu of $50,000 bond.

Individuals noted in this column are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported Mills County Deputies have recently been heavily involved in what began as aggravated sexual assault of a child investigation and evolved into child pornography. Sheriff Hammonds stated that Inv. Stephanie Brown received report of a possible child sexual assault on July 1, 2015. During the course of the investigation numerous witnesses and victims were interviewed about many different possible sexual abuse cases stemming from many years past involving minor children related to the suspect. The suspect was identified as 72 year old Michael David Holley of Mullin, Texas. On October 14, 2015, Mills County Sheriff’s Deputies executed a search warrant at the Holley residence located on Farm Road 574 in Mullin, Texas. Numerous electronic devices were seized during the search and were analyzed after the seizure. Several hundred images of underage female girls were discovered on some of the devices. On November 10, 2015, Sheriff’s Deputies executed arrest warrants for Michael Holley and his wife 70 year old Donna Pauline Holley for Felony Possession of Child Pornography. Both individuals remained in custody in lieu of $100,000 as of press time.

In other news Sheriff Hammonds reported the quick identification and arrest of 41 year old Michael James Coleman of Tow, Texas. On October 21 the Mills County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a pressure washer that had been stolen during business hours at a local merchants business. A newly installed video survelliance system caught images of the suspect committing the theft. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office has recently created a website (millscountysheriff.org) and a Facebook page. Chief Deputy Chris Green posted Coleman’s photo on our website and social media page and by the next day Coleman had been identified and arrested in Llano County, Texas.

Sheriff Hammonds encourages everyone to follow our website and social media page to stay up to date with occurrences in our community.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported numerous person were arrested in recent weeks for drugs and weapons offenses. On October 3, 2015, Deputy Johnny Brown stopped female driver for traffic violation on US 183 south of Goldthwaite. During the contact Deputy Brown identified 17 year old Luis Richard Campos of Santa Rosa, New Mexico that was consuming alcohol inside the vehicle. Deputy Brown obtained consent to search the vehicle which resulted in the recovery of loaded .38 revolver pistol under Campos’s seat. Campos was charged with minor in consumption and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Another Passenger identified 58 year old Joseph Eugene Garcia of Albuquerque, New Mexico was placed under arrest for prohibited weapon. The female was not charged and was released.

October 6, 29 year old Joseph Aguirre of Brady, Texas was apprehended in Michigan on an outstanding warrant out of Mills County 35th District Court for Motion to Revoke Probation for the offense of Delivery of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Firearm by Felon. Aguirre was transferred back to Texas and is currently in the Mills County Jail awaiting trial.

On October 13, 38 year old Tonya Sue Collins of Liberty Hill, Texas was arrested after being indicted for felony Forgery charges stemming defrauding an elderly victim. Collins is currently held awaiting trial for her offense. This same date Deputy Johnny Brown conducted a traffic stop on US 183 south of Goldthwaite. Deputy Brown identified the driver identified as 26 Jarrod Scott Smith of Houston, Texas and immediately detected marijuana emitting from the car. Other occupants in the car are identified as 20 year old Kellcee Aubra Justice of Round Rock, Texas and 32 year old Corey Trumane Vorish of Houston, Texas. While Deputy Brown was dealing with the three individuals another vehicle stopped at a distance behind them during the stop. A call for assistance prompted deputies to make contact with the other individual parked behind them. That individual was identified as 25 year old Tiffany Winzer of Stafford, Texas. A probable cause search revealed marijuana inside of the first vehicle and two handguns were also discovered during the search. Smith, Justice, and Vorish were all charged with possession of marijuana and unlawful carrying of a handgun. Winzer did not even have a driver’s license to drive the vehicle she was in and consented to a search of her car. A search of that car revealed Winzer was in possession of prescription pills that were unlabeled. Winzer was arrested for possession of controlled substance. All individuals were transported to the Mills County Jail were they have made bond and are awaiting trial.

On Wednesday, October 14, 2015, 35th District Judge Steve Ellis sentenced the following individuals to serve county jail and prison sentences in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Carlos Morales Martinez 33 years of age of San Saba, Texas was sentenced to six months in the county jail a probation violation stemming from unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. 45 year old Tommy Joe Pierce of San Saba, Texas was sentenced to three years confinement in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for possession of a controlled substance in a drug free zone.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported that the Mills County Sheriff’s Office has been currently busy this recent week with investigations and arrests. Sheriff Hammonds stated that on Monday, September 14, 2015 Mills County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an individual attempting to cash stolen checks at a local bank. Mills County officials arrived and identified a male individual that had been given the checks and asked to cash them. During the course of the investigation it was discovered that a 13 year old juvenile had taken the checks from a residence while visiting. The checks have been recovered and the case will be filed with the Mills County Attorney’s Office for prosecution in this case.

On Thursday, September 17, Mills County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a burglary of a vehicle on Brim Street in Goldthwaite. During the investigation it was determined that 42 year old Yvonne Meadows had entered her sons vehicle without permission and stolen his Texas driver’s license. Deputies arrested Meadows for burglary of a vehicle and theft of driver’s license both misdemeanor charges. Meadows is currently out on bond awaiting trial.

On Friday, September 18, at approximately 9:44 AM, Sheriff Hammonds conducted a traffic stop in the 1400 block of Fisher street after observing a driver passing cars on the right hand side downtown almost colliding with parked vehicles. During the stop a female individual later identified as 45 year old Deborah Castillo Melchor of Round Rock, Texas. Melchor did not have any identification in her possession and became deceptive about her identity by giving a fake date of birth. It was later determined that Melchor was driving on a suspended license. Melchor was arrested for failure to identify and was placed in the county jail where she was able to make bond.

On Monday, September 21 at approximately 5:03 PM, Deputy Johnny Brown stopped a driver on US 183 south of Goldthwaite for speeding 94 M.P.H in a 75 M.P.H zone. During the stop the occupants were identified as 25 year old Carlo Colton Gossett (driver) and 34 year old Shanna Lynn Hughitt (passenger) both of Mullin, Texas. Deputies gained consent to search the vehicle and discovered less than one gram of methamphetamine inside the vehicle. While deputies were searching the vehicle it was discovered that Hughitt had tossed a methamphetamine smoking pipe on the ground. Gossett and Hughitt were both charged with felony possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine) less than 1 gram. Hughitt was additionally charged with felony tampering with evidence for the discarded pipe.

On Wednesday, September 2, 2015, at approximately 5:37 PM, Trooper Mark Owens stopped a vehicle on US 183 south of Goldthwaite for a traffic violation. During the contact Trooper Owens searched the vehicle resulting in the arrest of 24 year old Brandon Clay Hebert of Arvada, Colorado for possession of marijuana.

On Thursday, September 3, at approximately 1;30 PM, Deputy Johnny Brown stopped the driver of a vehicle for an equipment violation in the 900 block of Fisher Street. The driver is identified as 34 year old Lacee Brena Geeslin of Goldthwaite. During the stop Deputy Brown became suspicious that Geeslin might be under the influence or in possession of a controlled substance. Deputy Brown was refused consent to search of the vehicle at which time Comanche Police Department responded with their narcotic detection dog. The dog alerted to both sides of the vehicle forming probable cause for a search. The search revealed a set of weighing scales with a powder residue substance that tested positive for methamphetamine. Geeslin was arrested for felony possession of a controlled substance and was transported to the Mills County Jail. Deputies later found a methamphetamine pipe that had been dropped discarded in the patrol car where Geeslin was riding. Geeslin was also charged for felony tampering with evidence and is currently out on bond.

On Friday, September, 4 at approximately 9:30 AM, Inv. Stephanie Brown responded to a report of an assault that occurred at Mullin ISD. Inv. Brown arrived on scene and identified the suspect as 17 year old Hale Denise Ramber of Mullin. Ramber had assaulted another student at the school which was recorded by school security cameras. Ramber was charged with misdemeanor assault and was arrested on a criminal mischief warrant out of Mills County Court.

Sheriff Hammonds reported that recent weeks activity have been relaxed throughout the county. Sheriff Hammonds stated that the Mills County Commissioners have been aggressively working on the new law enforcement center to prepare for the incoming contractors for construction. “I want to Thank the Mills County Commissioners and their staff for their diligent work in the recent weeks” Sheriff Hammonds said. Sheriff Hammonds also wanted to extend a big Thank You to Lee Hoffpauir and his staff at the Outdoor Superstore during construction. Mr. Hoffpauir has donated all the material from behind the Outdoor Superstore at no cost to the county saving the local tax payers what could have been an enormous cost in the construction. Sheriff Hammonds is currently using inmate labor to off-set cost that might otherwise be expended by local tax payers.

In other news Sheriff Hammonds reported that on Friday, August 4, 2015 at approximately 5:54 PM, Sheriff’s Officials arrested 26 year old Christopher Mantia of Goldthwaite for class B misdemeanor theft warrant. Mantia is charged with one count of theft from the Mills County General Store prior to this date when Mantia entered the store a stole a game camera. Mantia had fled on foot and was seen by citizens in an alley acting suspiciously. The citizen obtained a license plate of the suspect vehicle which led deputies to identifying Mantia in this case. Mantia is also suspected in other recent thefts from business’s here in Goldthwaite. Mantia is currently free on bond and is awaiting a court date.

On Wednesday, August 26, at approximately 2:34 PM, Inv. Stephanie Brown responded to a report of theft in progress at the Dollar General. The suspect had already left the scene and a vehicle description was provided. Inv. Brown located the suspect vehicle at a local gas station and identified the suspect as 31 year old De Juan Antonio Taylor of Comanche, Texas. Inv. Brown was able to obtain a confession and recover the merchandise that had been stolen. The merchandise was worth approximately $25 and consisted of hygiene products. Taylor was charged with a class c theft and was transported to the Mills County Jail where he later pled guilty and paid a fine and was released.

On Thursday, August 27 at approximately 9:00 AM, felony warrant was served on 32 year old Phillip Eugene Jones of Lometa, Texas. Jones came to the Mills County Jail where he surrendered on charges of unlawful possession of firearm by felon. Jones is currently in custody in the Mills County Jail and is awaiting trial.

Sheriff Clint Hammonds reported that his deputies have been very busy in recent weeks responding to routine calls and conducting extensive investigations. Sheriff Hammonds stated that on Wednesday, July 15 at approximately 9:00 PM, Deputy Johnny Brown stopped a vehicle for speeding south of Goldthwaite. Deputy Brown made contact with and identified the driver as 27 year old Angela Goldschmeding and a passenger 31 year old Larry Dwane Farmer Jr. both of Austin, Texas. During the contact Goldschmeding admitted to possessing marijuana in the car. A probable cause search revealed a small amount of marijuana, approximately 219 grams of hash in the form of edible cookies and a 9 millimeter pistol from inside the vehicle. Bothe individuals were arrested for misdemeanor possession of marijuana, second degree felony possession of controlled substance penalty group 2 under 400 grams and unlawful carrying of a weapon.

On Wednesday, July 22 at approximately 5:03 PM, Mills County Deputies executed felony warrants at a residence located in the 1900 Block of Fisher Street. 24 year old Valorie Shelton was arrested for motion to adjudicate for the offense of felony theft and 28 year Daniel Kolb was arrested for motion to revoke for the offense of delivery of marijuana. Both individuals are from Goldthwaite and are currently in the custody of Mills County.

The Mills County Sheriff’s Office received reports of counterfeit US currency being passed with several merchants in Goldthwaite during mid-July. Investigator Stephanie Brown began following up leads through witness’s and surveillance video where these bills were passed. Inv. Brown identified the first suspect as 46 year old Richard Wayne Humphries of Blanket, Texas. During the investigation it was discovered that 30 year old Michael Ross Burnett was residing with Humphries and was currently a fugitive from Mills County for two counts of felony theft from the elderly. Inv. Brown went to the Humphries residence in Blanket, Texas with Humphries and arrested Burnett on the outstanding warrants. A small of marijuana was recovered from Burnett during the arrest and Brown County Sheriff’s Officials were notified to assist. Also while at the residence deputies obtained consent to search a vehicle that Burnett was during the arrest. Deputies recovered numerous counterfeit $20 bill from indie the vehicle where Burnett was sitting. Through the course of interviews Deputies were then led to a barn behind the residence where electronic device and uncut printed counterfeit money was being stored. During the search deputies found that there was small room in the barn being occupied by 22 year old Richard Wayne Humphries Jr. A consent search of his room revealed that he was in possession of methamphetamine. Further investigation revealed that a clandestine methamphetamine lab was located in the attic of the barn that was being searched. All of these individual have been arrested and are currently in the Brown County Jail. The Mills County Sheriff’s Office is currently working with the Brown County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service as the investigation progresses. Sheriff Hammonds noted that all the deputies hard work and long hours from both agencies involved in this investigation have paid off.

On Friday, July 31, 2015, at approximately 7:55 AM, Mills County Deputies were dispatched to a residence on Farm Road 573 north of Mullin in regards to a possible active shooter. Information received was that an individual from Illinois had showed up at a residence and opened fire on the house with an automatic weapon. Numerous local and state law enforcement officers assisted in the call and perimeter was formed around the residence. Officers were in communication with the supposed victim who also stated that he was armed as well. Through the course of a couple of hours it was determined that the victim identified as a 72 year old male was have medical issues and was hallucinating as result of these issues. The individual was disarmed by a family member and was transported to the hospital for evaluation. Mills County was assisted by Texas Parks and Wildlife Wardens, Texas Department of Public Safety, Goldthwaite and Mullin Fire Volunteer Fire Depts.

Later that evening at approximately 5:15 PM, Deputy Rick Pickard was on patrol on Farm Road 573 north when he stopped a 2007 GMC pickup for a traffic violation. The driver was identified as 39 year old Chad Lee Seider of Mullin and during the stop Deputy Pickard began a driving while intoxicated investigation. During that time consent was given to search the vehicle that resulted in the recovery of approximately one ounce of methamphetamine inside the vehicle. Numerous firearms were also discovered inside the vehicle and Seider was placed under arrest for first degree felony possession of a controlled substance penalty group 1 over 4 grams but less than 200 grams. “This was another major seizure by Mills County Deputies that again has interrupted the distribution of methamphetamine in our community, more especially Mullin” said Sheriff Hammonds. Sheriff Hammonds also said “I hope the area drug dealers are paying attention to our endless efforts put them behind bars and get the hint that they need to stay away from Mills County”.

On Sunday, August 3, at approximately 1:00 PM, Deputy Brown responded to a report of an assault family violence that had occurred in the 900 block of Roseman Street in Goldthwaite. During the investigation it was discovered that the suspect 37 year old Margarita Lara had left the residence and was possibly located in Mills County. Mills County Deputies located the suspect at a residence on Private Road 224 where she was placed under arrest for assault family violence.

The Mills County Deputies have been busy during the past few weeks and here are just a few of the cases and arrests that have been made during that time. On Monday, June 29, 2015 at approximately 10:00 PM, The Mills County Sheriff’s Office received information that there was possibly a Federal Fugitive staying in a local motel. Mills County Sheriff’s Deputies assisted the United States Marshall’s Office in surveillance of the area and interviewing individuals of the motel. Through the course of the investigation officers were able to confirm that 33 year old Luis Moriel of Seminole, Texas was staying in a room and officers were given permission by a roommate to enter the room. Deputy US Marshalls and Mills County Sheriff’s Officers entered the room a were able to quickly effect the arrest of Moriel. Moriel was under sealed Federal drug indictment out of the Western District of Texas. Moriel was housed overnight before being transferred to a federal holding by US Marshalls.

On Wednesday, June 24, at approximately 4:16 PM, Mills County Sheriff’s Deputies received a call that there was a fight in progress in the 3000 Block of US 84 east in the middle of the highway. Deputies arrived and found a tractor trailer blocking the road and mini-van on the shoulder. Witnesses informed deputies that the drivers of both vehicles stopped in the road and began fighting. Deputies identified 79 year old John Miles of Hernando, Mississippi and 66 year old Daniel Thatcher of Hamilton, Texas. During the course of the investigation it was determined that Hernando had missed a turn and failed to yield onto US 84 nearly colliding with Thatcher. Thatcher then got in front of the tractor-trailer and forced him to stop. Both individuals exited their vehicles and a verbal argument ensued. Both individuals then began to physically assault one another briefly until witness’s intervened. Both Miles and Thatcher were cited for class C misdemeanor assault and will have a court appearance date before Justice Of the Peace Leland Knight.

On Friday, June 26, at approximately 6:00 PM, Mills County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle in the city park. Deputy Rick Pickard responded and located the vehicle leaving the park driving south on Texas 16. Deputy Pickard initiated a traffic stop and made contact with driver identified as 22 year old Jacob Martinez of Goldthwaite, Texas. During the stop it was determined that Martinez did not have a valid driver’s license and was placed under arrest for no driver’s license.

Wednesday, July 1, at approximately 12:41 AM, Mills County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a suspicious vehicle parked on County Road 403. Deputy James Purcell responded and located the vehicle occupied by 31 year old Brandon Verette of San Saba, Texas just sitting in the car. Deputy Purcell determined that Verette was under the influence of some type of chemical other than alcohol. During the investigation Verette admitted that he was there to smoke “K2” a street term for synthetic marijuana. Verette was placed under arrest for public intoxication. Verette entered a plea and served 5 days in the Mills County Jail for the offense.

On Friday, July 3, at approximately 5:00 PM, Mills County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a female subject possibly intoxicated walking in the middle of Farm Road 1047 south in Star. Deputy Johnny Brown arrived first on scene and made contact with a 30 year old woman from Florida. During the contact the female became aggressive and assaultive which resulted in a brief physical fight before securing her in handcuffs. It was determined that the female was under the influence of an unidentified chemical or drug and was in need of medical attention. It took approximately 6 individuals to restrain the female and secure her to a stretcher. She was transported to Hamilton Hospital for treatment and her name is being withheld due to medical patients right of confidentiality. Then at approximately 8:00 PM, Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers stopped a vehicle on US 183 south of Goldthwaite for a traffic violation. During the stop approximately 9 ounces of marijuana was recovered and 32 year old Christopher Monroe of Abilene, Texas was arrested for felony possession of marijuana. Monroe is still currently in custody in the Mills County Jail.

On Tuesday, July 7, at approximately 1:07 AM, Deputy Johnny Brown was on routines patrol on US 84 west of Goldthwaite when a he conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. The driver was identified as 28 year old Arion Thomas of Lubbock, Texas. During the stop it was determined that Thomas was driving on an invalid driver’s license and also was wanted out of Lubbock County, Texas for felony Tampering with evidence. Thomas was arrested and is currently awaiting extradition back to Lubbock County.